A Cozy Close to October: 7 Last-Minute Ways to Savor Fall Before Halloween

Written by Sterling & Maple Team

As the golden glow of October begins to fade and the air grows crisp with the promise of November, there’s a special kind of magic in these final autumn days. Halloween might be just around the corner, but before the costumes come out and pumpkins turn into porch decor, there’s still time to soak up the warmth, beauty, and slowness of fall.

Whether you're feeling nostalgic for the earlier days of the season or simply want to pause before the holiday rush, here are 7 last-minute ways to savor fall before Halloween, the Sterling & Maple way: intentional, cozy, and quietly beautiful.

1. Take a Golden Hour Walk (Without Your Phone)

There’s something sacred about walking through crunchy leaves just before sunset. Leave your phone at home, or tuck it away. Breathe in the earthy scent of damp leaves, notice the changing light, and let your thoughts wander. This kind of walk isn’t about steps or speed — it’s about presence.

Bonus: Bring along a small bag and collect fallen leaves, acorns, or twigs to decorate your home.

2. Make a Maple-Sweetened Fall Treat

October is the perfect time to bake — and maple syrup is our sweetener of choice. Try your hand at maple-glazed roasted pears, pumpkin muffins with a maple drizzle, or even a spiced maple latte at home. Fill your kitchen with warm scents that linger into the evening.

3. Press Leaves or Start a Fall Scrapbook

Find the most beautiful leaves you can and press them between heavy books. Once dry, use them to make seasonal bookmarks, greeting cards, or pages in a fall scrapbook. Add in handwritten notes, quotes, or photos to turn it into a keepsake.

4. Host a Tiny Gathering

It doesn’t have to be a party, just invite a friend or two for cider and conversation. Light a candle, make a simple snack board, and enjoy the quiet company. Let it be casual and warm, an intentional pause before the buzz of the holidays.

5. Write a “Fall So Far” Reflection

Set aside 15–20 minutes to reflect on the season so far. What have you loved about this fall? What surprised you? What memories do you want to hold onto? Journaling like this helps you transition into the next season with clarity and gratitude.

6. Refresh Your Space with Autumn Touches

There’s still time to add a little seasonal charm. A cozy throw blanket, dried florals, or an amber-hued candle can instantly warm up a space. Swap out one or two everyday items with fall textures, wool, wood, or woven accents.

7. Embrace One More Quiet Evening In

Put on your softest socks, queue up a favorite fall film (think You’ve Got Mail, Kramer vs. Kramer, or Practical Magic), and let yourself do nothing. Read. Sip tea. Stay off social. It’s okay to be still, in fact, it’s essential.

The end of October doesn’t have to be a sprint toward Halloween. It can be a slow, golden goodbye to a season that’s all about change, coziness, and reflection. However you spend these last few days, may they feel nourishing, full of warmth, wonder, and just a touch of maple.

From the Sterling and Maple Fall Collection: cozy, curated, timeless.