As the sun makes haste towards the southern hemisphere and the days get progressively shorter, I set my sights on easing into the best time of the year. No matter if you are on the east coast enjoying the first of the changing leaves under crisp blue skies, or out west where things tend to stay warm but the days take on a subtle perfection, this time of year calls for celebration. Breathe in that autumn air and prepare for the plentiful outdoor playing opportunities. Here’s why I say falling down is better.
Falling In. As a surfer, I am ecstatic that the doldrums of summer have departed and the swell is finally here (last week I broke yet another board while getting too amped on the inside). The water is still warm, so there are no excuses to shy away. For those of us who enjoy our favorite spots when they allow for some quite introspection, capitalize on the departure of the summer crowds. I myself will make the most of the tranquility of fall by pairing a few camping trips with my surf sessions. Hop in your kayak, cast off you’re your sailboat, or find a river for your innertube; it’s time to get wet.
Falling into a Groove. For those of us who will be exploring locally, you can’t go wrong checking one of the lively outdoor events which are in abundance during the fall. From fairs to concerts, there is a ho-down in your neighborhood. I will be letting my inner hillbilly out at the world famous (and free!) Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco (October 2-4). Just a few festivals worth checking out this October:
The Austin City Limits Festival (aclfestival.com/) Austin, TX
The Blue Mountain Bluegrass Festival (www.bluemtnmusic.com/index.html) Collinsville, VA
Harvestfest 09 Shawnee Cave (www.cavefest.com) Carbondale, IL- a festival in a CAVE!
Three Sisters Music Festival (downtownchattanooga.org/threesisters/) Chattanooga, TN- FREE!
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival (www.jazzandheritage.org/blues-fest) New Orleans, LA- FREE!
Catalina Island Festival of World Music (catalinamusicfestival.com/index.asp) Avalon, CA
Just don’t try to out hula-hoop the wookie next to you, you look like an amateur and might pull a hammy.
Falling from Wagons. My next stop undoubtedly involves tasting the best of the season. Whether your downfall is a vicious sweet-tooth or the beginnings of that wintertime beer belly, the fall offers unparalleled palate filling bliss. As a beer fanatic I’m always excited to try a new pumpkin ale or Oktoberfest brew. This season I’m looking forward to tasting a seasonal beer from a great microbrewery which was born just downstream from Mt. St. Helens.
Pyramid Breweries’ Juggernaut Red Ale is described as “an American Red ale brimming with delectable caramel malts, delicious hops and an unquenchable spirit.” Yum, sounds like a winner. So whatever your favorite cuisine may be, take a moment to kick back with friends and family and cheers to the days of falling ahead.
All That's Fit 