Happy Fall, YPK friends! Autumn brings lovely weather, but in this unprecedented time, what festive fall activities are still an option? Here’s a list of five fun fall activities to try in Knoxville this year, with social distancing in mind!

1. An autumn classic that we all know and love is a trip to the corn maze and the pumpkin patch! It’s the best time of year to visit a local farm that’s fun to explore with family and friends, and it’s great if you have little ones! Take a hayride, pick the perfect pumpkin for your Jack-O-Lantern, and navigate your way through the twists and turns of the corn maze! Click here for a list of nearby corn mazes and pumpkin patches that are open this season, courtesy of WATE.

2.  Nothing says “Spooky Season” quite like a scary movie. Things look a little different this year, but we can still enjoy the fun with a night at the drive-in movies! Knoxville Horror Film Fest, hosted by Central Cinema, will take place at Parkway Drive-In this year with just as many screams. If scary movies aren’t your thing, check out Knox County Library’s Drive-In series, Drive-In at the Midway in Chilhowee Park! They’re showing films throughout the month that are fun for the whole family. Whether you prefer a trick or a treat, don’t forget the popcorn!

3. Spend a crisp autumn evening with some of your YPK pals at the October Mini Meet-Ups! We’re doing what we can to keep people safe, so we’ll be meeting in a few small groups rather than one large group. You can find us at Central Filling Station, Elst Brewing Company, Orange Hat Brewing and Plumb Creek Dog Park! So, grab a friend or your pup, and meet up with us! Register here.

4. Apple picking may be the most picturesque autumn activity. From apple pie to apple butter, apples are the perfect fruit for a cozy treat. Grab a friend and head to one of these nearby pick-your-own orchards for some in season apples! Click here for a list of orchards near Knoxville that are open this year.

5. You can’t think of fall without thinking of Halloween, and that calls for some spooky celebration! If you’re looking for something scary, historical and oh-so interesting, check out Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tours through downtown Knoxville. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the one to prove that ghosts exist!

About the Author

Hailey Rudd is a communications professional working in the TV world to learn new perspectives and skills. She graduated from Lee University in 2017 with a love for creative writing and a desire to bring her gifts and skills back to her community. Hailey has been a contributing member of Young Professionals of Knoxville since July 2018. She enjoys traveling the world in pursuit of new adventures, experimenting with baking and spending time outdoors with her dog.