QAFM Advisory Board Picks: Favorite Fall Activities for the Whole Family
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, fall brings with it a season full of traditions, adventures, and family memories. Our advisory board members are sharing their favorite fall happenings. Events that capture the spirit of the season and celebrate the places and people they love most. Read about the magic of Nauvoo’s Pumpkin Walk, joining in the fun at Boo at the St. Louis Zoo, or lacing up for an annual Turkey Run. These activities highlight just how much there is to enjoy close to home and beyond.
Why the Nauvoo Pumpkin Walk Is One of My Favorite Fall Traditions
From Advisory Board Member Sarah Clark
Every fall, there’s one night my family refuses to miss. It’s the night we bundle up, grab hot chocolate, and wander streets lined with hundreds of glowing pumpkins, our kids’ eyes wide with wonder. The Nauvoo Pumpkin Walk isn’t just another fall activity, it’s the moment the season feels real for us, and the start of all our cozy family traditions.
I’ve been going since I was a kid, weaving through crowds, staring in awe at the glowing pumpkins, and hopping between fun little activities along the way. Now, as a mom, it’s become our family’s favorite fall night complete with themed costumes, laughter, and the kind of small-town magic you wish you could bottle.
One of my favorite memories? The year I was pregnant with our second and dressed as Wilma Flintstone. My husband was Fred, our toddler was Pebbles, and right at the start, my husband’s flip-flop snapped in half. Without hesitation, I kicked off my sandals and declared, “We’re going full Flintstones tonight!” Barefoot and laughing, we made our way through the pumpkins. It’s still one of my favorite stories to tell.
The creativity of the costumes each year never fails to amaze me like the time someone showed up as Beetlejuice, my sister-in-law belted Phantom of the Opera in full costume, or my brother-in-law surprised us all as a leprechaun. These little surprises are what make the night unforgettable.
But the real magic? The togetherness. The way neighbors, friends, and strangers gather to share smiles, swap costume compliments, and enjoy a slow-paced, joy-filled evening. In a busy world, the Nauvoo Pumpkin Walk is a rare chance to pause and soak in something truly special with your kids.
If You Go:
When: Always the Saturday before Halloween
Where: Downtown Nauvoo (most families park in the parking garage across from the temple)
Cost: Free to attend; food and certain activities available for purchase
Tips: Dress in layers, bring a wagon or stroller for little legs, and carry cash just in case.
If you’ve never been, I hope this is the year you come. You might arrive for the pumpkins, but you’ll leave with your heart a little fuller and maybe a story you’ll still be laughing about years from now.
