With the brisk breezes and changing leaves, fall is an exciting time of year. It's also the perfect opportunity to plan some fun activities with your kids before the weather turns cold for the winter. Below are some of the best activities to do with your kids during the fall. 

Pumpkin Carving

One of the most popular fall activities you can plan is pumpkin carving. Whether you decide to carve a traditional jack-o-lantern or use a complex pattern to create your own masterpiece, you can have fun with this time-honored tradition. Even smaller kids who may not be able to use sharp tools can enjoy certain aspects of the pumpkin-carving process, such as scooping out the pumpkin's insides. Alternatively, you can also opt to paint pumpkins instead of carving them if you are working with smaller children. If you want a full day of activity, consider heading to the pumpkin patch to pick out your pumpkins before you begin carving. 

Nature Scavenger Hunt

Another fun activity you can enjoy with your children on a mild autumn day is a nature scavenger hunt. You can prepare for this activity by making lists of items your children can find or spot outside, such as leaves, acorns, pinecones and even squirrels. Depending on the age of your children, you may make this list as simple or as detailed as you like. Next, encourage the children to look for each of the items on the list. You can make the activity into a game with a reward for the child who finds the most items on the list, or you can all work together to find as many things as possible. 

Apple Picking

Fall is the perfect time to head to the apple orchard for a memorable day outside. Many apple orchards offer a wide variety of apples for your children to pick on their own and purchase by the pound. Take these apples home and eat them fresh or use them to bake a pie. In many cases, you will have access to other activities while you're at the orchard too, such as hayrides. 

Picnic in the Park

Although you can also have picnics in the summer, fall often makes for a better experience. Fewer insects are around in the fall, and the changing of the leaves offers the perfect backdrop for time spent outside. Pack a lunch or dinner and head to the park to have a picnic with your kids. Depending on the park, you may also be able to take a scenic walk or spend some time on the playground. 

Local Festivals

No matter where you live, it's likely that at least one town in the area will be hosting a festival in the fall. Check out the local newspaper or online guides to find out about festivals available in your area. Take your children to the festival to enjoy rides, shows, local vendors and other festivities. 

These are just a few ideas for ways you and your kids can enjoy the fall. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to take plenty of pictures so you will be able to remember the quality time you spent together during this unique season.