I live by Anne Shirley’s oft-quoted words: “I’m so glad I live in a country with October.” Having grown up in New England, there is no better place to reinforce the truth behind this gratitude. The air turns crisp and the natural world glows with all kinds of autumn colors. You spend Saturdays hiking and Sundays baking your favorite comfort food (all the while, including the best books of the season). That’s why October has long been my favorite month, but with the move to warmer climates and the ever-present reality of climate change, a new month has taken its place at the top. And boy, do I have a long list of things to do in November to help you fall hard, too.
30 Things to Do in November
One day, I was joking with my friend that I don’t have beauty until autumn. Summer sees me abandon any attempt at cynicism and embrace the beauty that is in your bathing suit every time.
But thankfully, when fall (especially November) arrives, I can finally crawl under the cozy blankets and dive deeper into pastimes that I could only do with the AC turned up. In short, November—with the reintroduction of sweaters, slippers, soups, and stews—is perfect. And with that comes a long list of things to do in November before my favorite month ends.
It’s for all of the above reasons (and my countdown to Thanksgiving) that I’ve been reminded of the many things I have to be thankful for this month. November is the perfect time to crack open a new cookbook (or two), embrace your crafty side, and happily prepare for the beautiful winter weeks ahead. With that, let’s get into your final November to-do list before the holiday rush overwhelms you.
November 1-9
1. Make a monthly Pinterest board. Get cozy on the couch, put on a show of luxury, and enjoy a cup of tea while you browse for inspiration. Clothes, cookware, decorating ideas, and more. You will feel energized and motivated to take on the moon.
2. Put something cozy in the oven. November marks the start of many upcoming baking races. These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are a seasonal favorite and this pumpkin bread—filled with lighter-than-air cream cheese frosting—is the dessert of dreams. And if your pumpkin quest has come and gone, may we suggest you get a head start on your holiday cookie production?
3. Prepare for daylight savings. If you live in an area that observes daylight savings, make sure you mark this Sunday, November 3, on your calendar. Dark days are a reminder to embrace the comforts of staying indoors. If you work from home or in a flexible office environment, try to walk regularly throughout the day to get fresh air. And be sure to check out our tips for treating seasonal affective disorder.
4. Learn a new craft. Try knitting, sewing, or sign up for a ceramics class! (Or join me in learning how to make the perfect pie.)
5. Order your holiday cards. It’s never too early for these to start. By prioritizing them at the beginning of the month, you can ensure that they are still happy to write and post.
6. DIY your holiday decoration. These Scandinavian Dala horse gift toppers are a minimalist’s dream. I have given many of these clay mushroom ornaments and the recipients are always impressed. Oh, and you’ll never guess what these fun star ornaments are made of (hint: hold on to your recycling).
7. Shop Target’s holiday collection. As crafty as I am, I also get impatient when I see all the holiday decorations arrive at my local Target. I love these little food bowls, and how cute is this wreath?
8. Have your best weekend ever. These questions from Food52 take you through every step of the way to a cozy weekend. Whether you’re spending the weekend at home with your family, planning a trip with your partner, or just want to chill and relax with the best company (you), this is the perfect guide.
9. Learn to wrap the perfect gift. Once you’ve started collecting your holiday gifts, check out our guide for tips on how to wrap the perfect gift. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, we’ve got you covered.
November 10-16
10. Hold a football Sunday. There’s something cozy about getting together with friends to watch the Sunday games. Make a big pot of chili and ask your guests to bring snacks. It’s such a humble way to come together.
11. Review your farmhouse skills. Preserving food, creating natural cleaners, and making your own dried herbs—there’s a lot of creativity to be found in the DIY lifestyle. For reliable information all in one place, book by Julia Watkins Easy Living it is a great resource. Or, if you prefer a class, be sure to check out the School of Traditional Skills.
12. Write thank you cards. Share it with all the people in your life who make your days easier, lighter, and brighter. Just writing them down will make you feel warm and comfortable inside.
13. Make a boiling pot. Cozier than a candle and easier to make. We like the combination of sliced ​​apples, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a little maple syrup to sweeten the deal.
14. Prepare for holiday guests. Because we knew this moment would come, we did the work ahead of time to ask one of our favorite designers how to create a cozy and comfortable guest room. With tips from stocking essentials to cool design ideas, prepare for a stress-free visit.
15. Reconnect with your gratitude practice. Don’t just give thanks for Thanksgiving this year. Master the art of practicing gratitude every day this month with these simple habits that can have a big impact on your life.
16. Watch all the best fall movies. They are comfortable, they are comfortable, and they don’t care at all.
November 17-23
17. Make pasta from scratch. It’s much easier than it seems. Camille’s sweet potato gnocchi is a great place to start.
18. Set the perfect Thanksgiving table. Whatever your vibe, we’ve got all the holiday table inspiration you need. Your guests will have a lot more to eat than pie this year.
19. Read the best fall books. From BookTok to the best new releases to the ultimate fall reading list, we’ve got you covered.
20. Help your children get used to the morning routine. Are the AM hours busy in your house, too? We get it. Learn how to plan a meaningful morning with your kids. Trust us, they will love these ideas.
21. Create a scheduler to synchronize the cycle. Our menstrual cycles change how we feel throughout the month. Match your energy levels with aligned activities and supportive foods to help you feel your best. Use this cycle sync planner to start your journey.
22. Have a girls night. They’re back—and we’ve got the girls’ night out ideas you need to make sure your night isn’t just another wine night.
23. A Celebration of Friendship. Keep the vibes relaxed and cool. Do it potluck style and invite everyone to bring their favorite dish for the holiday. It’s so fun to learn about everyone’s culture.
November 24-30
24. Watch Gilmore Girls all the way through. It’s now or never, folks!
25. Be a morning exerciser. It can help reset your circadian rhythm and boost your energy throughout the work day. Get started with our favorite YouTube workouts for AM moves.
26. Analyze your communication skills. If you’re going to a big Thanksgiving gathering, this couldn’t be more timely. Go here for guidance on approaching difficult holiday conversations with grace.
27. Plan the perfect charcuterie board. They are the easiest way to feed (and wow) a crowd. Try our favorite fall charcuterie board and invite everyone.
28. Celebrate Thanksgiving! Whether you’re with family or friends, a partner or just yourself, enjoy the magic of this day dedicated to gratitude, connection, and love.
29. Drink coffee outside in a cozy blanket. I like to feel the fresh November chill while my mug keeps me warm. It’s the perfect way to get some sunlight first. Take your book with you for good vibes.
30. Shop local. As you begin reading your holiday list, make an effort throughout the month to shop at local stores.