As the days grow shorter and the air begins to cool, September gently ushers in the rhythm of fall. It’s a month of transitions—from summer fun to school schedules, cookouts to cozy crafts, and sunshine to sweater weather.

But don’t let September slip by unnoticed! This in-between month is packed with meaningful opportunities to connect as a family and prepare for the season ahead. Here are some fun and heartfelt ways to make the most of September.

Labor Day: A Family Finale for Summer

Labor Day (the first Monday in September) is often the final big bash of summer—and the perfect time to celebrate your family’s favorite memories from the past few months.

Here are some simple ways to make it meaningful:

• Summer Memories Slideshow: Let the kids narrate photos from your summer adventures.

• Back-to-School Fashion Show: Show off those new school outfits with some music and silly poses.

• DIY Outdoor Movie Night: Hang a sheet and project a favorite summer film under the stars.

Grill Tip: Try a Clay Flowerpot Barbecue!
Surprise your guests with this creative cooking setup:

• Use a new, clean clay flowerpot with a grate placed over hot coals inside.

• Cook hot dogs, burgers, or even foil-wrapped meals.

• Bonus: Add some fire-safe rocks at the bottom for better heat distribution!

It’s a conversation starter and a budget-friendly grill alternative!

 Autumn Crafts That Last Through Halloween

September is an ideal time to start fall crafting. These simple DIY projects can stay on display right through October:

•  Pressed Leaf Garlands: Collect colorful leaves, press them in books, and string them into a garland.

•  Pumpkin People: Use construction paper or fabric scraps to make silly pumpkin faces (no carving needed).

•  Cinnamon Stick Apples: Paint or glue paper apples and add a cinnamon stick stem for a sweet-smelling craft.

Pro Tip: Use crafts as gifts for teachers or grandparents!

National Grandparents Day – September 8 (2025)

This heartfelt holiday falls on the first Sunday after Labor Day. Whether your grandparents live next door or miles away, here are ways to make them feel loved:

 If they’re far away:

• Write a handwritten letter or draw pictures

• Call or FaceTime and share a story or song

• Create a mini scrapbook of family memories

 If they’re nearby:

• Plan a picnic in the park

• Interview them about their childhood

• Cook a recipe they used to make and share it together

Don’t forget honorary grandparents—like that sweet neighbor down the street or the couple from church who’s always offering kind words.

 Celebrate the Season of Harvest

Even if you don’t have your own garden, you can still celebrate the harvest:

• Visit a local farmers market

• Host a “Harvest Tasting” with apples, cheeses, and fresh bread

• Make homemade applesauce or cider together

• Learn an old-fashioned skill like canning, drying herbs, or making jam

 Use this time to teach your kids where their food comes from—and why that matters.

 Looking Ahead:

September is also a great time to start preparing for fall holidays:

•  Brainstorm Halloween costumes early—especially if you’re DIY-ing

•  Plan your Thanksgiving menu or assign recipe tasks to family members

•  Start holiday gift lists (and take advantage of fall sales!)

Even just writing your ideas down now will make the coming months feel more manageable—and more joyful.

September isn’t just the month before fall—it’s the bridge that brings your family closer as you move from one season into another. With a little planning and a lot of love, you can create meaningful traditions your family will look forward to year after year.