Though daytime heat can often feel like summer, not fall, in Lamorinda, it’s the cool mornings and evenings that alert us to the changing of the season. We love this time of year – heralded by pumpkin spice lattes, retailer displays of pumpkins in every shape, color, and size, and fall foliage. (Who says that the East Coast corners the market on changing color?) If you need some autumnal inspiration, these activities should help you step into the spirit of the season.
Pumpkin Patch: The sheer variety of pumpkins at Orchard Nursery keeps us coming back year after year. Adorn your front entry and dining table with selections in every size and color. Peruse their fun selection of fall and Halloween décor, door mats, garden accessories, velvet and Talavera pumpkins, witch hats and so much more. A visit to Orchard always puts us in a festive mood.
We also love the variety of “gourdgeous” pumpkins readily available at Trader Joe’s and Diablo Foods.
Fall Foliage Walks: You need not leave town to witness a spectacular display of fall foliage color. The trees surrounding Orinda Community Park turn a bright yellow before dropping their leaves on the walking path. And the Lafayette Reservoir features a palette of glorious reds and golds. Venture a bit further to the Berkeley Hills to walk the trails in Tilden Park where within its 2,079 acres you’ll find nearly every hue. Tip: The Redwood Valley Railway and Lake Anza trails are the best.
Fleet Week: This annual event (initiated in 1981 to celebrate the Bay Area naval tradition and to honor men and women serving in the armed forces) is held October 3 – 11 this year. The event features varied activities throughout the week, but it’s the US Navy Blue Angels fly-overs on the weekend (October 8, 9 & 10 from 3 – 4pm) that take our breath away. Find your spot on San Francisco’s Marina Green or Crissy Field, and witness sheer aviation perfection. It’s an exhilarating way to kick off the fall season.
Lafayette Reservoir Run: The Lafayette Chamber and the City of Lafayette co-sponsor this fun, family friendly fall event that benefits local schools as well as Chamber services and programs. Kids, parents, grandparents, and serious runners will gather October 24th to participate in 5K and 10K walks/runs that start downtown and end at the Reservoir. Four legged residents are welcome to join in.