It’s hard to believe that summer is already in the rearview and we’ve officially entered another autumn season. While we enjoy the crisp air and stunning colours of the changing leaves while wearing our favourite jeans with our fall flannels, we’re also given the opportunity to reflect on all we’re thankful for as Thanksgiving quickly approaches.
Last Thanksgiving, many of us were still unable to be with our loved ones, so there is a lot of anticipation for celebrating together this year. Here are just a few ways to create a fun and memorable Thanksgiving weekend:
Mix up some fall cocktails
Summer is the season for fun and fruity cocktails, but fall brings with it a host of new flavours that are perfect for creating unique drinks that will give you and your guests a warm and fuzzy feeling during the cooler months. Swap the orange juice for apple cider topped with your favourite champagne to make apple cider mimosas; add a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple to the rim. For those who like pumpkin-everything as soon as they feel a fall breeze, how about a Pumpkin White Russian? Mix 1 oz of Pumpkin Spice Kahlua, 2 oz of vodka and 1 oz of heavy cream. If you want something that will keep your hands warm while you sip, we love a classic mulled wine; use your favourite fruity, full-bodied red and mix in a small amount of maple syrup, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and any other flavours you would like to add, into your slow cooker. Keep the heat on low for about an hour and then reduce to warm. The mulled wine is ready to enjoy while you cozy up indoors or outside by the fire. There’s no shortage of exciting fall flavours to make some creative cocktails that will make you forget about summertime sangria.
Dress for the weather and get moving
As soon as the weather gets cold, it can be easy to want to shut ourselves in until spring, but the colourful fall foliage is much better enjoyed outside! Before your family and friends sit down for a hearty Thanksgiving meal, encourage everyone to dress for the weather and enjoy a fall walk, or a hike on a nearby nature trail together. Take pictures and enjoy each other’s company while getting some exercise. Along your walk, pick up the prettiest leaves you can find to make colourful, environmentally friendly centrepieces for the dinner table.
Shake up the Thanksgiving routine
Autumn weather is unpredictable, but if you’re lucky enough to have a sunny fall day, why not bring dinner outdoors? This is a great way to once again enjoy the outdoors with your loved ones before even colder weather makes its way. You can set up tables featuring fall decor or enjoy your meal around a fire. Rather than doing all of the generic Thanksgiving dishes, why not ask each of your guests to bring their favourite dish to share for the ultimate Thanksgiving potluck. Rather than having bottles of wine on the table, opt for individual canned wine for every place setting. Most of your favourite wine brands also have their wines in cans which are environmentally friendly, safe and convenient for enjoying the outdoors.
Reflect and enjoy
Ultimately, the fall season is one of change and reflection. As we get closer to Thanksgiving, we can reflect on all we have to be grateful for, even when things have seemed challenging. Whether you will be seeing extended family, enjoying a “friends-giving”, or opting to lay low, remember to pause and give thanks for all of life’s little joys.
How are you spending your Thanksgiving weekend? What do you love most about the autumn season? Let us know how you #Canjoy in the comments! We would love to hear from you.