Gather and Celebrate: Hosting a Fall Party
As the air turns crisp and the trees begin to glow with color, fall invites us to open our homes once more—to slow down, share good food, and enjoy the simple joy of being together. Hosting a fall gathering doesn’t have to be elaborate; it’s about creating an atmosphere of warmth, welcome, and gratitude.
Set the Scene
Bring the beauty of the season indoors. A few candles, pumpkins, and fall leaves can transform your space into something cozy and inviting. A pot of simmering cider on the stove or a favorite autumn-scented candle can set the tone as guests walk in. Or, take advantage of the cool weather and start a bonfire in the yard, serving warm drinks and snacks outside.
Keep It Simple and Seasonal
Fall is the perfect time to whip up some yummy comfort food for your guests that can be prepared ahead of time and are cost effective for a large group. Think warm soups, chili, breads, and apple or pumpkin desserts. Invite friends to bring their favorite seasonal dish to share as well. If you want to get the kids involved in a fun way, have a cook-off or dessert competition where each family can enter their dish and those at the gathering vote on their favorites.
Make It Meaningful
Create space for conversation and connection. Consider setting out conversation cards, having some fun yard games or board games available, or encouraging guests to bring a fall memory or family tradition to share. Small, thoughtful touches make everyone feel seen and part of something special.
Include the Whole Family
Whether it’s children bobbing for apples, teens helping with setup, or grandparents sharing stories, a fall gathering can remind everyone that hospitality is a family effort. These moments teach our children that opening our homes is about love, not perfection.
This season, let your home become a place of warmth and togetherness—a reminder that true celebration lies not in perfect decorations or fancy recipes, but in the joy of shared time and grateful hearts.
"Man becomes an image of God not so much in the moment of solitude as in the moment of communion."
—St. John Paul II
The History of the Soft Pretzel: An Oktoberfest Favorite
While there are many wonderful types of fall celebrations, a favorite around the world is the traditional Oktoberfest! Enjoyed at these festivals are delicious German delicacies, a variety of beer and cider, and lively music.
The soft pretzel is a beloved Bavarian snack served at Oktoberfests worldwide, and have made their way onto the menu at American sporting events, carnivals, fairs, and beyond. But do you know the origin story of the pretzel?
According to historians, pretzels were first created by Catholic monks in the 7th century as an ideal food to eat during Lent as they contained simple ingredients that aligned with the fasting and abstinence rules in place in the Church at the time. The three distinct sections of the pretzel, created by twisting and looping the dough, were thought to symbolize the three Persons of the Holy Trinity, or to represent the folding of a person's arms in prayer.
In the middle ages, the popularity of pretzels spread, and they became a staple of German cuisine. Over the centuries, people continued to experiment with flavors to accompany pretzels, however, the original structure remained fairly simple, similar to the pretzels we know and love today.
Check out this soft pretzel recipe to make with your kids this fall!
