Break out your sweaters - autumn is here.

After a hot summer, we’re finally moving ahead to the cooler months. The days are shorter, trees are changing and people are getting in the mood for fun fall festivities.

If you’re like me, you’re already looking ahead to Halloween. Stores have their costumes and decorations out, so don’t delay and get your festive decor now.

Now is the time to get out in the fresh, autumn air and enjoy apple picking, corn mazes, pumpkin patches and other harvest activities before the winter frost sets in.

Many local municipalities are taking advantage of this golden time between the summer heat waves and the winter freeze to hold festivals and other events.

Catasauqua Borough will present its annual Fest O’ Fall 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 1 along Front Street. Come out to enjoy vendors, food trucks, adult beverages, local organizations, games, crafts, music and entertainment.

For those who enjoy the scary side of this season, Whitehall Fire Department is hosting the annual Haunted Hayrides in the Parkway during weekends throughout October. The rides are planned for 7-11 p.m. Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29. There is a cost, which benefits the fire department. Refreshments and free parking are available.

Now is also the time of year for leaf peeping. Take a leisurely drive around the Valley to enjoy the changing colors of the leaves. However, remember the days are shorter, so pay extra special attention when driving at night, particularly during trick-or-treat nights at the end of the month.

Unfortunately, autumn is not all cider and doughnuts and fun times. There are also things to keep an eye out for during this time.

Since we are heading into cooler weather with temperatures dropping, there are sicknesses to worry about. It is time for the return of cold and flu season, so start now with increased hand-washing, stay hydrated and take your vitamins.

Allergies are also a concern during the changing of the seasons.

Make sure to eat well, get plenty of rest and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. These are all things we should be well accustomed to doing during the COVID-19 pandemic but are good habits to continue.

Make the most of the fun, fall season and take advantage of the festive events happening in your neighborhoods and around the Valley.

Or, if you’re a homebody, use this cooler weather as an excuse to snuggle up with your favorite person, pet or blanket and enjoy a good movie with a cup of hot tea or cocoa.

Happy fall!

Samantha Anderson

editorial assistant

Whitehall-Coplay Press

Northampton Press

Catasauqua Press