45 Fall Party Ideas for a Fun and Festive Get-Together
Lauren Miolene
Editor
The smell of pumpkin spice can only mean one thing—fall is officially here! The autumn season is all about cozy vibes, good company, and delicious food, so why not plan the ultimate festive fall party to get in the mood? Although Halloween and Thanksgiving are right around the corner, there is still so much more to celebrate this season with our unique fall party ideas.
Whether you need inspiration for fall birthday party ideas, anniversary activities, or fall bachelorette party themes, we have tons of inspiration you can incorporate into any occasion this season.
1. Hocus Pocus Theme
This Disney Halloween movie series is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season if looking for fall theme party ideas. Invite guests to dress in their best witchy attire, sip on Virgin Black Flame Cocktails, and book a karaoke DJ so everyone can sing along to “I Put a Spell on You.” This will guarantee the ultimate monster mash the Sanderson Sisters will want to crash.
2. Murder Mystery Party
Murder Mystery parties were made for the spooky season and fall party ideas. Transport your guests to a different era or an intriguing setting with a bold theme and exciting costumes. Partygoers will become detectives tasked with solving a captivating crime while putting their acting skills to the test.
The Bash has live action murder mystery entertainers as well as virtual options, so you can start planning your party and putting your detective abilities to work.
3. Festive Flannels
Fall is flannel season! Don your best plaid patterned jacket, button up, or accessories to get into the cozy mood for your fall party ideas. Whether paired with jeans, boots, or layered over a graphic tee, a flannel shirt exudes a casual yet effortlessly chic vibe for a fall party wardrobe option.
4. Acoustic Band
An acoustic band will help encapture a warm and lively atmosphere at your fall party. These musicians play mellow tunes on the guitar, piano, harp, or other instruments to create a cozy and inviting ambience. Start your search for the perfect fall party entertainment on The Bash.
5. Mini Apple Pies
Apple pie is a quintessential flavor of fall, but it’s not the most party-friendly dessert to serve. Rather than baking full pies, bake individual mini pies to include in your fall party food ideas. This allows for everyone to get a taste while avoiding a sticky mess. Don’t forget to top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and whipped cream!
6. Harry Potter Theme
Something about the wizarding world of Harry Potter screams fall vibes. Get ready to don your robes, grab your wands, and immerse yourself in a magical fall party that would make even the great Dumbledore proud! From sorting hat ceremonies, to amazing magicians, and Quidditch matches, we've got everything you need to bring the magic to life. So, gather your fellow witches and wizards, and let the spellbinding festivities begin!
Harry Potter Theme Party Guide
7. Pumpkin Bowling
For fun fall party ideas, build your own bowling alley using 10 medium sized gourds that have a flat bottom to stand up. Set them up in a pyramid which will act as the pins. Next, you’ll need a small round pumpkin to use as the ball to knock them down. This party activity will keep guests entertained while having a festive flare.
8. Fall Bachelorette Party Ideas
Celebrate the bride-to-be’s upcoming nuptials with a fall bachelorette party! Lean into the season with autumn themes like “falling in love,” “flannel and fizz,” or a Halloween inspired, “‘til death do us part” theme. Take advantage of fall activities like wine tastings, bonfires, and the opportunity to dress up in costumes.
9. Apple Cider Mules
The Moscow Mule’s fall friend is the flavorful apple cider mule that will be a festive touch on the drink menu. Using vodka, apple cider, ginger beer, and lime juice, this beverage will be the star of your fall party that will pair perfectly with your fall party food ideas. Don’t forget to pour over ice and garnish with a fresh apple slice.
10. Fall Farm Theme
What says “autumn” more than a day at the farm? Channel this rustic fall party theme with corn stalks and hay bales as decor, red checkered tablecloths with burlap accents, and a special visit from real life farm animals. Guests of all ages can enjoy getting up close to wildlife including pigs, goats, and even go for pony rides.
11. Cozy Coffee Cart
Cozy up during your fall party when booking a coffee cart! These mobile baristas can prepare all of your favorite coffee drinks including pumpkin spice lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and much more. Complement your fall party food ideas with some warm drinks to have everyone feeling festive.
12. Halloween Baby Shower
If your little boo is due this season, or you just love the spooky season, a Halloween themed baby shower is the perfect way to celebrate the upcoming arrival of your pumpkin. Channel the fall vibes to welcome baby with these autumn themes:
Halloween Baby Shower Themes:
- A Little Boo is Almost Due
- A Baby is Brewing
- Mummy to Be
- Little Monster
Fall Baby Shower Themes:
- A Little Pumpkin is on the Way
- Falling in Love with Baby [Last Name]
- Apple of our Eyes
- A Little Cutie Pie
13. Mini Pot Pies
Pot pie is one of those recipes that is made for the fall but it isn’t ideal to serve at a party. Give everyone a little taste by whipping up mini pot pies for an individual portion. We love this recipe by The Baker Chick that utilizes a muffin tin to create the perfect pie. Easily swap ingredients in the filling like turkey, seafood, or extra veggies for a customizable fall party food idea.
14. Fortune Teller
Add a touch of mystery and enchantment to the fall party festivities with a fortune teller to share a glimpse into the future. Guests will be amazed to hear what the fall season has in store.
Whether you book a fortune teller, tarot card reader, or psychic, this magical addition will be the perfect detail for your get-together. You could even book a lip print reader for a unique fall bachelorette party idea.
15. Wednesday Theme
It’s creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky, it’s the Wednesday Addams theme party you’ve been waiting for! This Netflix show spinoff on the classic Addams Family creates the perfect backdrop for a fall party. To start, you can decorate with dead flowers, dress as a Nevermore Academy student (werewolf, vampire, siren, or gorgon), and book a cellist to play just like Wednesday. If using this theme for fall birthday party ideas, include a half black and half rainbow cake to look like Wednesday and Enid's dorm room window.
16. String Lights
String lights are an ideal indirect lighting option to help enhance the ambiance at your seasonal celebration. They also match all of your fall party themes. Choose from warm tones and even fall inspired shapes like leaves, pumpkins, or candy corn inspired to put everyone in the fall mood. Getting creative with lighting is always a solid choice for a fall outdoor party idea.
17. Fleece Blankets
Any good host offers some sort of party favor, but it’s best to include things that your guests will actually use. We love the idea of rolling up fleece blankets and labeling them with each guest’s name for a personalized gift. People can use them during the party if outside, wait until they get home, or keep it in the car for those extra chilly nights.
18. Practical Magic Theme
Add Practical Magic to your list of fall party themes this year to perfectly capture the fall vibes. Channel all things dark and witchy, book a tarot card reader, and hire a bartender to whip up some Midnight Margaritas. Dress in your favorite skirts and dresses, dance around, and hand out salt, rosemary, and lavender party favors. Afterall, “there’s a little witch in all of us.”
Practical Magic Theme Party Guide
19. Oktoberfest Party
Oktoberfest festivities typically take place mid September in Germany, but you can host an Oktoberfest theme party any time of year. You’ll need traditional blue and white decor, classic pub food, a polka band or Oktoberfest playlist, and of course, plenty of beer! Bonus points if you get guests to dress up in lederhosen and dirndls!
20. Beer or Wine Tasting
The fall season means you’ll probably be drinking plenty of red wines, stouts, and lagers. Take this seasonal opportunity to host a fall themed beer or wine tasting. Each guest can bring their favorite fall beverage, or you can provide a variety for guests to try and rank. You can even download wine and beer tasting score cards on Etsy so guests can keep track of their favorites. Don't forget to include fall party food ideas and pairings like cheese, bread, and fruit.
21. Friendsgiving Party
The start of fall means you’re going to want to start planning your Friendsgiving get-together ASAP. Host it before Thanksgiving weekend, send out invites with ample time, and start planning the dinner and drink menu to ensure everything runs smoothly.
22. Fall Photo Booth
Having a photo booth at a fall party adds a lively and interactive element that all guests can enjoy. Feature a backdrop of autumn's vibrant colors, incorporate fall themed props such as faux leaves, pumpkins, flannel scarves, and apple baskets. This not only encourages guests to engage and have fun but also creates memorable snapshots of the party, capturing the warmth and joy of the season.
23. Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked macaroni and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, making it a fantastic fall party food idea. Nothing beats the combination of tender pasta and creamy, melted cheese, all topped off with a crunchy breadcrumb topping and baked to golden perfection. You could also serve mac and cheese bites for a handheld option that’s easier to serve.
24. Rustic Hay Bale Seating
Not only do hay bales make seasonal decor, but they also serve as a creative seating option. Stock up on hay bales from your local nursery and place flannel fabric on top for guests to sit on comfortably. The best part is that once your party is over, you can use them again throughout the fall season or even decorate your front porch afterwards.
25. Thanksgiving Celebration
Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time hosting, a Thanksgiving party is a must for the fall season. Make the traditional plates like turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole, and gather ‘round to celebrate all that you’re thankful for. Listen along to our Thanksgiving playlist to ensure a special get-together this autumn season.
26. Corn Hole Tournament
Nothing encourages a little friendly competition like Corn Hole! People can form teams and participate in a round robin style tournament to crown the Corn Hole champion at the end of the party. Set up this classic game outside so guests can enjoy the fresh fall air.
27. Fall Mixology Class
Fall is the perfect time to get creative with your cocktails. Incorporate seasonal flavors like apple, cinnamon, and pumpkin with your favorite liqueurs for a delicious autumnal beverage. Consider booking a bartender to whip up these seasonal drinks or even lead a fall inspired mixology class so guests can learn to make their own.
28. Tailgate Parties
Whether you’re kicking off the start of football season or celebrating the World Series, tailgates are more fun in the fall. Put on your team’s gear, fire up the grill, and watch the best sporting events the fall has to offer. Don’t wait for the big game to host, celebrate with a tailgate for a sporty fall theme party idea!
If you're a Swiftie turned football fan, check out these Taylor Swift inspired football party ideas.
29. Storytellers
There are plenty of short stories that take place during autumn or have fall themes and undertones. Did you know you can book a professional storyteller to bring these tales to life? Browse The Bash to find storytellers near you that can share stories like “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and other classics to get everyone in the fall mood.
30. Fall Dinner Party Ideas
Dining al fresco doesn’t need to end in the summertime; host a cozy outdoor dinner party to channel all the fall vibes. Arrange space heaters, candles, and serve a hot fall dish to get guests in the fall mood. While you can always host your dinner party indoors, being outside allows the perfect opportunity to take in the fall foliage and fresh air before the winter begins. There are plenty of fall dinner party ideas to make your get-together extra special this season.
Pro tip: for the ultimate dinner party experiences, wine and dine guests with a meal prepared by a professional caterer and their team.
31. Pumpkin Carving
Although this is an obvious fall activity, you’re going to want to carve out enough time to ensure you can fit all the fall traditions in this season. Whether you include a small pumpkin carving station at your party, or host an entire evening dedicated to it, guests will enjoy the opportunity to get creative and let their artistic juices flow. Don’t forget to stock up on plenty of pumpkin carving tools, stencils, and paint from Amazon.
32. Fall Florist
Depending on the scale of your event and the need for fall party decoration ideas, you can hire a local florist to put together autumnal floral arrangements. These professionals can create centerpieces, floral walls, and arches using fall color schemes. They can even incorporate pumpkins, leaves, and other festive touches depending on the style you envision.
33. Cider and Donuts
Cider and donuts is an elite combination for the fall—you’ll want to make sure you have plenty to go around for your party. Serve a variety of apple cider donuts like cinnamon sugar covered or glazed, and have local apple cider to complement them. For unique fall birthday party ideas, arrange cider donuts in the shape of a cake.
For the adults, feel free to spike the cider with rum, whiskey, vodka, or even champagne for a simple yet delicious cocktail.
34. Pumpkin Checkers
This DIY game is simple to put together because you’ll probably already have some of the materials at home. Create a checkerboard using thin orange painter’s tape and small pumpkins and gourds for the playing pieces. This creative game will encourage a little friendly competition while also providing a unique fall touch. You can even customize the board so you can also play pumpkin tic-tac-toe or connect four!
35. Fall Balloon Decor
All parties need balloons, especially if you’re planning fall birthday party ideas! Browse local balloon decorators to perfectly accent your Halloween party, Friendsgiving, or other fall festivities to celebrate the season.
36. Fall Picnic
Level up your fall dinner party ideas by hosting a cozy autumnal picnic this season. Lay out a flannel blanket, pack snacks that incorporate fall flavors like apple, sage, and pumpkin, and if you want to take these fall party ideas to the next level, book live ambient music to serenade guests throughout.
37. Costume Party
Don’t you hate buying or making the perfect Halloween costume but only getting to wear it one time? Costume parties can be held all fall long, whether you're reusing your outfit from October 31st or choosing a different theme for guests to take part in. Get creative with your party theme with ideas like Mamma Mia, The Parent Trap, or Stranger Things.
38. Bob for Apples
You’ll want to cross this off the autumn bucket list, so include it at your fall party! Fill a bucket with water, dump in a variety of apples, and allow guests to go head to head for a classic apple bobbing contest. Another option is to tie apples on a string and hang from a fixture for an apple eating contest. Just remember, no hands allowed!
39. Gilmore Girls Theme
Nothing says “fall” more than the quaint town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut. Get inspired by the hit show, Gilmore Girls, to plan the ultimate autumn party that will put everyone in the mood.
Encourage no cell phone use, play some trivia, and watch a few episodes while cuddling on the couch. You’ll also want to serve diner style burgers, Pop Tarts, and lots and lots of coffee, Loreali says so.
40. Candle Making
A DIY candle making station can add a cozy, interactive element to a fall party. Guests can enjoy crafting their own candles, choosing from a variety of fall themed fragrances like pumpkin spice, apple cider, or cinnamon. All you have to do is melt the wax, add a favorite scent and color, and wait for the candles to solidify. This party activity will help celebrate the fall and make a perfect gift to take home.
41. Country Band
Booking a country band for a fall party can add a rustic charm that aligns beautifully with the season. The lively strumming of guitars, banjo, and the soulful lyrics of country songs can create a warm and inviting ambiance. From upbeat dance tunes to slower, cozy songs, a country band can offer a versatile soundtrack to your fall party.
42. Build a Scarecrow
Have you ever built a scarecrow? Hosting a fall party provides the perfect opportunity to check this off the bucket list. To host a scarecrow building party, have hay or leaves for stuffing, wooden stakes for frames, and pumpkins or burlap sacks for heads. Guests can even bring old clothes to dress up their garden friend.
43. Pumpkin Spice Baking Challenge
Pumpkin spice is the flavor of the fall, whether you like it or not. Allow guests to be creative and invite them to bring their favorite pumpkin spice dessert. This way, everyone can enjoy a little taste of pumpkin spice bars, cupcakes, ice cream, and more during the party.
If celebrating a birthday, you can’t go wrong with a pumpkin spice cake for a fun and festive fall birthday party idea.
44. Carnival Theme
Carnivals and fairs are a staple for the fall season. Take inspiration and host a carnival for a unique fall party idea. Include all of the classics like carnival games, human statues, and stilt walkers. You can even book food carts to serve iconic carnival food like cotton candy, fried pickles, and funnel cake for the finishing touches.
45. Apple Nachos
Fall means apple picking, which means you probably have a bowl of apples you have no idea what to do with. Create a delicious party treat by slicing the apples thin and layering with caramel, chocolate chips, and graham crackers. This dish is simple to make and serve as a fun fall party idea.
Find more fall party ideas and inspiration here on The Bash.
