Have you seen the advertisements in and around your community for upcoming Fall Festivals? They are abundant in our area, and my friends and I look forward to these events each and every year. It’s a time to celebrate all things autumn, such as pumpkins, apples, cinnamon, and even potatoes!
While it is easy to get sucked in to all the hoopla of these events, spending a fortune on fall decor you don’t personally need may not be the best idea. Why not take advantage of these festivals by going in with a purpose?
Christmas, I hate to say, is right around the corner. Because of this, I plan to attend these events with my list in hand to purchase some unique gifts for family and friends. An intentional course of action really does help to control a person’s budget!
Local Vendors at Fall Festivals
While some vendors found at fall festivals are large businesses, the majority of people selling items are owners and operators of small businesses. You will also find delicious food freshly prepared by local churches and other groups, like Boy Scouts.
Over the years, I have found many authentic, local, handmade gifts at these events for an absolute bargain compared to shopping at traditional, “big box” and online stores. For example, I use a few different websites for personalized gifts. Getting someone’s last name etched onto a product isn’t cheap. I have found local vendors, however, that do this at a comparable price. The benefit? You get a high-quality, handmade, unique, one of a kind gift that is not only made in America but made locally.
Surprisingly, you will likely pay less by shopping this way. The best part? You usually meet and talk with the person who makes the products. Therefore, if you don’t see what you like, you may be able to have a product custom made!
Granted, you will find some items at these shows that may be imported or that are inexpensive, and frankly, look that way. But most things are made with love over time by local artisans that take a great deal of pride in their work. To me, that unique gift is worth a few extra dollars. Some great finds include jewelry, artwork, furniture, journals, scarves, and blankets.
The vendor pictured above, Old Soul Abstract, began by making artwork out of old vinyl records. The business evolved from there, and now includes many new items, including jewelry! We purchased two durable tables for our son’s efficiency apartment, and they have really added a unique feel to his space.
Fall Festival Food
It is so easy to
…….but I don’t.
I always buy my family’s favorite foods to take home, and I choose one treat for me. Going to a local restaurant for lunch is part of our day out together. Again, this supports the local economy, which is so important.
Fall Festivals, often referred to as harvest festivals, celebrate all the foods of the season. Sometimes, local farmers will have boxes of pumpkins to sell along with corn stalks, Indian Corn, and gourds. The sights and smells of these annual festivals are a special tradition to me. Autumn is truly one of my favorite times of year!
Fall Festival Checklist
- Plan a day out with friends to enjoy the sights and smells of autumn.
- Jot down a list of people who are on your gift list.
- Set a budget. Carry cash and keep it safe while you walk around.
- Bring tote bags along to easily lug your purchases around.
- Buy a little something for yourself.
- Search for a lunch destination everyone can agree on.
- Stay hydrated.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you may do a lot of walking.
- Treat yourself to an apple dumpling, candy or caramel apple, pumpkin gob, or some other food you love.
- Support local entrepreneurs.
- Finally, have fun, relax, and enjoy the outdoors!
Now it’s time to go out and enjoy the local festivities in your area! Bask in the glory of this harvest season!
Until Next Time,
April
Subscribe to Just Organize My Life for helpful tips delivered to your inbox weekly.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
