Your guide to cozy living & local fun in Dane County!
October is here! Discover simple ways to refresh your home, enjoy the crisp outdoors, and dive into all the fall events and community happenings Dane County has to offer. Cozy up, get out, and embrace the season!
As October settles in, the long summer nights give way to crisp mornings, cozy evenings, and the unmistakable beauty of fall in Dane County. The season brings more than just pumpkin spice lattes and colorful leaves—it’s a time to refresh your home, embrace the outdoors, and plug into the heartbeat of our community. Here’s your guide to making the most of fall, both at home and around town.
Refresh Your Home for the Season Fall is the perfect excuse to create warm, inviting spaces that make you want to slow down and stay awhile. A few simple swaps can go a long way:
Add textured throw blankets and cozy pillows to your living room.
Scented candles with notes of cinnamon or apple can instantly set the mood.
Layer in warm lighting with table lamps or string lights for shorter days.
Don’t forget the practical side—prep your fireplace, swap out furnace filters, and check windows for drafts so your home stays comfortable all season long.
Get Outside and Soak It In October in Wisconsin is all about fresh air and golden colors. Before winter arrives, make it a priority to get outdoors:
Visit a local orchard to pick apples or enjoy a glass of cider.
Wander through a pumpkin patch—bonus points if you carve your finds with family or friends.
Take a hike at places like Governor Dodge State Park or the Ice Age Trail to soak in those breathtaking fall views.
Cheer on your favorite team—whether it’s Friday night lights, Badger football, or your kids’ weekend soccer games.
Join the Community Fun Our area comes alive in the fall with events that bring people together. Some seasonal favorites to check out:
Local farmers’ markets are still buzzing with fall produce and handmade goods.
Fall festivals and craft fairs pop up across Dane County, offering everything from hayrides to homemade treats.
Haunted houses, corn mazes, and trick-or-treating events add a little extra excitement for families.
Community charity runs and fundraising events are a great way to support local causes while staying active.
Embrace the Season’s Mindset
Fall is about more than activities—it’s about a shift in pace. Shorter days encourage us to slow down, gather with loved ones, and appreciate the small things. Whether it’s cooking a hearty soup, reading by the fire, or taking a Sunday drive through the countryside, fall gives us all a reason to pause and be present.
As the leaves turn and the air cools, let’s embrace this season of change. From cozying up your home to enjoying all that our community has to offer, fall is an invitation to connect—both with the people around us and with the comfort of home.
What’s your favorite fall tradition? Share it with us—we’d love to hear how you’re celebrating the season here in Dane County!
