Fun Fall Activities

Although the sun hats, beach chairs and pool floaties have all found their way back into hiding, it’s not time to start hibernating yet. There’s hot cider to be had, cozy sweaters to don, and rich orange and red leaves to peep. Get out there and enjoy autumn in Boston with free activities, fall-themed events, and, of course, tasty harvests.

Spooktacular Pumpkins on the Pond

Summer splash pool, be-gone. Hold on a minute, skating rink. For one crisp fall night, the Boston Common Frog Pond fills up with glowing pumpkin luminaries. On October 19, from 4:30 to 6:30pm, watch this beloved body of water light up to celebrate All Hallow’s Eve as it’s covered with hundreds of floating pumpkins. There will be refreshments, music and child-friendly activities. You can even bring your own Jack-o-lantern to one of the drop-off areas alongside the pond, and they’ll illuminate it and float it for you.

Head of the Charles Regatta

Turning 50 this year, The Head of the Charles Regatta is the who’s who of rowing. Held this year on October 18 and 19, the world’s best crew teams challenge each other to the ultimate rowing competition on the Charles River. Grab a spot early between the Anderson and Weeks bridges, the halfway point of the race, for the best views. Between competitions, which run from 8am to 5pm, stroll the Weld Exhibition for delicious local flavors, free samples and official Regatta programs and merchandise.

Be a Leaf Peeper

There’s a reason why New England is known for some of the country’s best fall foliage. Beginning in early October, get out in the city and soak it up. Just take a stroll through the Arnold Arboretum or along Jamaica Pond and you’ll see some gorgeous colors. Or head out to Mount Auburn Cemetery for its autumnal majesty. To get up close and personal with the trees around our fair city, take part in Boston’s new bike-sharing system, Hubway. Simply swipe your credit or debit card at the touch-screen Hubway kiosk for the day rate and get riding.

SOWA Open Market

The blazing summer sun is great for the beach, but there are times when the cooler fall temps bring out best of city living. One of those places is Sundays at SoWa Open Market. Each Sunday through October 26 from 10am to 4pm, the three-block area along South End’s Harrison Avenue really gets going in the fall. You’ll find local artist paintings, vintage clothing, ceramics, and jewelry, all well-crafted, fun and funky. The Food Truck Court is 35 trucks strong with everything from grilled cheese to ramen to organic salads. Then stock up on local produce and gourmet specialty foods at the Farmers Markets, the perfect place for fall’s bounty of pumpkins, squash, and perfectly ripened apples.

The Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival

On September 27, Columbus Avenue in the South End turns into a six-block street party that would make Duke Ellington and Miles Davis proud. From noon to 6 pm, The Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival hosts three stages of jazz, Latin, blues, and groove acts that will set your ears on fire. Kids get into the groove with face painting, inflatables, an instrument petting zoo, and the interactive KidsJam led by Berklee’s Music Education department. The price is right. It’s free.

Whether you’re strolling in search of a Halloween scare or shopping ‘til you drop at an outdoor market, enjoy diving into fall. With all these activities in Boston, it’s a good idea to grab cash even if the event is free. You might run into an apple donut you must have or a gotta-get souvenir situation. With a no-fee FT Checking checking account from First Trade Union Bank, customers can hit any bank’s ATM at any time for cash, and they will rebate any ATM fees that you are charged! Plus, with free Online & Mobile Banking that allows you to access your accounts from wherever, whenever, First Trade obviously understands that convenience is something that fits best into your busy fall calendar.