Fact: It is getting colder and as warm-blooded creatures, we tend to spend more hours inside than out. This is also the time of the year that the food gets heartier and we may spend more time watching Netflix. This time of the year does not mean that our waistlines need to get wider and we cannot stay active. I have put together some things your family can do to keep moving this fall.
Head over to local Farmer’s markets. A family favorite is the Red River Market. It is one of the largest farmer’s markets and happens every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm in downtown Fargo. The produce is seasonal, there are great food trucks, and you can support local farmers. The food produced local will taste better than anything you can get in the grocery store, I promise!
Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes. This is a family fun event. You can still maintain distance and enjoy the outdoors. Lil Bitz Pumpkin Patch, Buffalo River Pumpkin Patch and the Fall Festival will not disappoint. You can pick out pumpkins, take family photos, run through corn mazes and take part in the petting zoo.
Head to the Zoo. Boo at the Zoo is a great event that is being held the month of October. They have extended the BOO-tastic fun by adding an additional date for 2020. Boo at the Zoo will now take place on October 17th, 24th, and 31st from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Go for a hike or Ride a Bike. There are so many great locations in the Fargo-Moorhead area to explore. Buffalo River State Park and Lindenwood Park are jammed packed with fall colors and places to hike. Have your kids pick up different color and shapes of leaves to investigate. Pick up logs to find creepy, crawlies, dig through leaves, and play in the dirt. There is so much to do that you are only limited by your imagination. Breathing fresh air and walking in nature is very healing for the body and soul.
Fargo Interactive murals. Head downtown Fargo and find all the murals. Take photos, grab ice cream, or stop by some of the great coffee shops while you walk around. If you would like a map to follow check it out here.
Orchard Glen Park. We always felt this was our family’s “secret” place, but we want everyone to know about this great place. Pick some apples, walk the trails, and have a picnic. It is located in South Fargo, head south down University Dr and turn left at 76th Ave S. Just check it out for yourself.
Pumpkin Carving. Flex your creative muscle and carve a pumpkin. This is also a great physical workout. While you cut, dig out the guts, and make create your pumpkin creation you will find it is impossible to sit the entire time. You will be standing, bending, reaching and may even break a sweat. Our family loves creating traditions and pumpkin carving is a must. Even the littles can play with the “guts” and get messy. This is such a great sensory activity.
Rake Leaves. This may not sound like a fun activity, but either way it gets you up and moving. To make it more fun you can build a leaf pile and throw them at each other. It is good to see that work can be fun and rewarding. Teach your kids to be service orientated by helping rake your neighbor’s lawn, with permission of course.
October is one of our family’s favorite months. We cherish this time before the snowflakes fly and make a conscious effort to remain active. Establish traditions and explore what your community has to offer. At Venture we again want to encourage you to get moving and encourage others to do the same. You will feel better physically and mentally. Now go start making memories!
- Melanie Dockter DC, CACCP
