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November is such a sneaky little month, isn’t it? One minute you’re sweating in late-summer heat, and the next you’re digging out blankets and sipping hot drinks. It’s that magical in-between where summer and fall collide—basically, the best excuse to squeeze in a bunch of fun before the year sprints into holiday chaos.
If you’ve ever thought, “What can I actually do in November besides complain about the weather?”—you’re in the right place. I’ve put together a monthly bucket list of 20 things to do in November that will keep you busy, cozy, and maybe even a little inspired before the month slips away.
1. Take a Scenic Walk (and Actually Look Around)
I know, I know—“take a walk” sounds basic. But hear me out. November walks are special. The air feels different, the light hits the trees just right, and you finally don’t melt after five minutes outside. Early fall fun starts with noticing the small stuff.
Pro tip: leave your headphones at home for once and just soak in the crunch of leaves. Yes, you might feel like you’re in a movie scene. That’s the point.
2. Host a Cozy Outdoor Dinner
Before it gets too chilly, drag a table outside, hang some string lights, and invite friends for a casual dinner. It doesn’t need to be fancy—order pizza if you want. The point is the cozy November vibe that comes from eating outside in a light sweater.
3. Visit a Farmer’s Market
November = produce heaven. Think apples, squash, corn, pumpkins. Even if you don’t cook, the colors alone are worth it. Grab a warm cider, walk around, and pretend you’re in a Hallmark movie.
4. Try a New Soup Recipe
Nothing says “November activities” like simmering a giant pot of soup on a Sunday. Bonus points if you make extra and freeze it for lazy days. My go-to? Butternut squash with a splash of coconut milk—tastes like autumn gave you a hug.
5. Start a Seasonal Journal
Don’t roll your eyes yet. A journal doesn’t have to be a “Dear Diary” situation. Just jot down daily thoughts, random ideas, or even a seasonal planning list. You’ll thank yourself later when you look back and see how your September actually felt.
6. Go Apple Picking
Yes, it’s cliché. Yes, you’ll probably end up with 20 pounds of apples you don’t know what to do with. But come on—it’s early fall fun at its peak. Plus, Instagram loves an apple orchard moment.
7. Light All the Candles
Candles instantly turn a boring Tuesday night into something magical. Go wild with cozy November ideas: pumpkin spice, cedarwood, or even just plain vanilla. Pro tip: light three at once for maximum “fall cabin” vibes.
8. Create a Fall Playlist
Music can set the whole mood for your month. Make a playlist with songs that feel like crisp mornings, golden afternoons, and cozy evenings. Trust me—it makes everything better, even laundry.
9. Redecorate a Corner of Your Home
Don’t panic—you don’t need to redecorate your whole house. Just pick a small corner (like your entryway or coffee table) and give it a seasonal refresh. Think mini pumpkins, plaid throws, or even just swapping in warmer colors.
10. Plan a Spontaneous Day Trip
Sometimes the best September activities are the ones you don’t overthink. Pick a nearby town, park, or hiking trail, grab snacks, and go. IMO, nothing feels more adventurous than a random road trip with zero expectations.
11. Bake Something with Pumpkin
Pumpkin muffins, pumpkin bread, pumpkin cookies… you get the idea. Even if you’re not a baker, try a simple recipe. The smell alone will make your house feel like an autumn wonderland.
12. Have a Screen-Free Evening
Sounds terrifying, right? But it’s actually refreshing. Grab a board game, make hot chocolate, or just chat with whoever you live with. Cozy November ideas don’t always require Wi-Fi.
13. Start a New Book
November feels like back-to-school season, even if you haven’t touched a classroom in years. Channel that energy into reading something new. Bonus if you pick a book set in fall—it doubles the cozy factor.
14. Go Thrift Shopping for Fall Clothes
Forget fast fashion for a second and hit up your local thrift shop. You can find the coziest sweaters, oversized flannels, and maybe even that quirky jacket you never knew you needed. It’s budget-friendly seasonal planning at its finest.
15. Make a Fall Bucket List with Friends
Everything feels more fun when it’s a group effort. Sit down with your crew, grab some snacks, and brainstorm a monthly bucket list together. Whether it’s carving pumpkins or binge-watching spooky movies, you’ll actually have things to look forward to.
16. Do a Mini Closet Clean-Out
Before bulky winter clothes take over, go through your closet. Donate what you don’t wear, store summer stuff, and make space for cozy fall pieces. Plus, you’ll feel like you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t).
17. Watch a Sunset
Cheesy? Maybe. Worth it? Absolutely. November sunsets are underrated—earlier than summer, but still warm enough to sit outside. Grab a blanket and just… watch. Free therapy.
18. Plant Fall Flowers or Herbs
If you’ve got a garden (or even a windowsill), November is a great time to plant mums, pansies, or hardy herbs like rosemary. Little pops of green can totally brighten up gloomy days.
19. Try a DIY Project
You don’t need to become a full-on Pinterest star. Just pick something simple—like painting a mug, making a wreath, or building a bookshelf. DIY projects are seasonal planning wins because they make your space feel extra personal.
20. Reflect and Reset
Before November ends, take a moment to check in with yourself. What worked this summer? What do you want this fall? Write it down, set a couple of intentions, and walk into October feeling like a boss.
Conclusion on Things to do in November
And there you go—20 things to do in November that range from the cozy and chill to the adventurous and bold. The month doesn’t have to pass in a blur of “meh” days. With a little effort (and maybe a pumpkin muffin or two), you can turn September into one of your favorite months of the year.
So, which of these are you adding to your monthly bucket list? 🙂
