Ultimate October Bucket List Ideas: FREE Printables for 2024

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October Bucket List Ides for Family, Kids and Teens

October is the perfect time to create unforgettable memories with your family. Whether you’re crafting, exploring the great outdoors, or celebrating holidays beyond Halloween, there’s an endless list of family activities to enjoy.

This October bucket list is packed with creative ideas for kids, teens, and families to make the most of the season. From cozy indoor fun to adventurous outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in and make October the most memorable month yet!

Download the October Bucket List FREE Printables at the bottom of this page

October Bucket List Ideas for Families, Kids and Teens

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, October brings a whole new world of fun activities for families. It’s a time to embrace the beauty of fall, celebrate holidays like Halloween, and make lasting memories together. Here are some awesome ideas for your October bucket list that kids and families will love!

1. Decorate Mini Pumpkins with Kids

There’s something incredibly joyful about decorating mini pumpkins with your kids! Start by picking up a bunch of small pumpkins at a local farm or grocery store.

Set up a decorating station

These canvas drop cloths are perfect for letting your children’s creativity run wild without the mess. You can set up a decorating station with paints, stickers, glitter, and markers.

Don’t be afraid to get messy!

Kids love getting their hands messy, and decorating pumpkins is a great way to do just that. I remember one year, my youngest painted hers with bright pink and added googly eyes, while my oldest went for a classic spooky face. The laughter we shared was priceless!

Display your creations

Once decorated, find special spots around the house or outside on the porch to display these cute creations. Not only do they add a festive touch, but they also become a lovely keepsake of your family’s artistic endeavors.

2. Have a Family Game Night with Halloween-Themed Games

Game night is a staple in our household, but come October, we give it a Halloween twist! Set up a spooky game night featuring board games like “Betrayal at House on the Hill” or “One Night Ultimate Werewolf.” These games are perfect for getting everyone involved and in the Halloween spirit.

Related Reading:

4 Halloween Super Fun Family Games

Prepare Halloween-themed snack and treats

To amp up the fun, prepare some Halloween-themed snacks—think popcorn with candy corn, spooky cookies shaped like ghosts, or even a pumpkin spice dip. There’s something so wonderful about gathering around the table, the laughter and playful banter filling the air.

Consider giving away small prizes

Make it competitive by keeping score or adding small prizes for the winners. This simple tradition not only strengthens family bonds but also creates lasting memories.

3. Explore Nature with a Fall Nature Scavenger Hunt

One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of October is to spend time outdoors. Organize a fall nature scavenger hunt in your backyard or a nearby park.

Create a list of items to find, like colorful leaves, acorns, and pinecones. You can also check out our Farmer’s Market Scavenger Hunt Here.

Include teens in creating the scavenger hunt

To involve your teens, let them take the lead in crafting the scavenger hunt list. They’ll enjoy the opportunity to guide the younger kids, and you’ll be amazed at how enthusiastic they can be when they’re in charge!

Plus, exploring nature is a great way to appreciate the changing seasons while enjoying the fresh, crisp air.

4. Attend a Fall Festival with Teens and Family

Fall festivals are a fantastic way to soak up the season’s festivities! Look for local fall festivals that feature carnival games, food stalls, and live entertainment.

These gatherings often have something for everyone, from hayrides to corn mazes, and even apple bobbing competitions.

Consider creating new family traditions

Make it a family tradition to explore a new festival each October. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bond as a family while trying out different activities.

I remember one festival where we all got lost in a corn maze—it was chaotic but filled with laughter and adventure.

Don’t forget to grab some warm apple cider or pumpkin treats to enjoy as you take in the sights and sounds of fall!

5. Make Halloween Crafts for Kids and Teens

When it comes to October, there’s something magical about turning our home into a creative hub filled with Halloween crafts.

I remember the first year I decided to make crafting a regular October tradition. My kids were excited to create their own spooky decor.

We ended up with a living room that looked like a haunted art gallery—complete with paper ghosts hanging from the ceiling and DIY masks scattered around.

Making paper ghosts

We kicked off our crafting session with some classic paper ghosts. It’s super easy—just grab some white paper, scissors, and a black marker. We cut out ghost shapes and let the kids go wild drawing spooky faces.

My youngest even added glitter because, apparently, ghosts can be glamorous too! As we crafted, I encouraged my older kids to help their younger siblings with more complicated projects like bats made from black construction paper.

Watching them work together was heartwarming; it’s one of those moments where I feel like my heart might burst with pride.

Display them around the house

Once our crafts were complete, we made a mini-display around the house. The ghosts floated above the kitchen table, and the bats were strung up on the mantel.

And let me tell you, nothing brings a smile quite like seeing your kids beam with pride at their creative achievements! It’s also a wonderful way to boost their confidence and sense of accomplishment.

If you’re looking for an easy yet delightful family activity, making Halloween crafts is perfect. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; it’s more about spending time together and creating something fun. Plus, you get to use those crafts to decorate for Halloween, making it a win-win!

6. Volunteer to Walk a Shelter Dog (Adopt a Shelter Dog Month)

October is not just about costumes and candy; it’s also Adopt a Shelter Dog Month! And let me tell you, there’s no better way to celebrate than by volunteering at a local animal shelter.

A few years back, my neighbor took her kids and teens to volunteer, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences they had together.

When the kids arrived at the shelter, she could see the excitement in her kids’ eyes when they spotted all the furry friends waiting for a walk.

The magic of seeing kids help

There’s something magical about seeing them interact with animals. She remembers her son, who used to be a bit shy, lighting up as he took the leash of a golden retriever. They were instantly bonded, and it was like he found a new best friend.

Giving back to the community

Walking dogs isn’t just about giving them exercise; it’s a fantastic way to teach kids and teens about giving back to the community.

Plus, it sparked a lot of conversations about responsible pet ownership and the importance of adopting animals in need. And let’s be real—those dogs are just as grateful for a little love and attention as we are!

If you’re thinking about getting involved, check out your local shelters for volunteer opportunities. Bring the whole family along; it’s a chance to instill values of compassion and kindness.

Who knows, you might even end up bringing home a new family member!

7. Have a Backyard Camping Night for the Whole Family

One of my absolute favorite traditions was having a backyard camping night. There’s something about the smell of campfire smoke and the sounds of crickets that instantly transports me back to my childhood.

Transforming your backyard

We transformed our backyard into a mini-campsite, complete with fairy lights strung around the tent and a little fire pit (okay, we used a small BBQ grill, but it did the job). As we roasted marshmallows, I was surprised to see how my teens got into it too!

Getting teens involved

The older kids and teens helped set up the tent and even planned ghost stories for the night. I didn’t expect the teenagers to be so excited to tell a spooky tale about a haunted house—it was hilarious and a bit terrifying at the same time!

Making camping a technology-free zone

This camping night became a technology-free zone. We put away our phones and just enjoyed each other’s company under the stars.

It was a wonderful reminder of how important it is to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other. We even did some stargazing and tried to identify constellations; who knew the future astrologist could name so many?

So, if you’re looking for a fun and simple way to bond with your family this October, consider a backyard camping night. It’s not just about sleeping outdoors; it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

8. Make Cards for National Do Something Nice Day (October 5th

October 5th is National Kindness Day, and what better way to celebrate than by making handmade cards with your kids and teens?

For a special treat for your kids or spouse, download and print out our fun Halloween Lunch Box Notes and slip it into their lunches for a spooky surprise.

Make it a tradition

I started this tradition a few years back at the special needs school I work at, and it’s become a highlight of our October calendar.

It’s a great way to encourage kindness and teach kids that small gestures can make a big difference.

Gather supplies to make cards

We gather all our craft supplies—colored paper, markers, stickers, and even some glitter (because, obviously, everything’s better with glitter!).

I usually set the tone by discussing the importance of kindness and how it can impact someone’s day. I’ll share a story or two about times when a kind gesture turned my day around. It sets the mood and gets the students thinking.

Come up with heartfelt messages

As we craft, I love seeing the different messages the students come up with. Some students might stick with “You’re Awesome!” while others write something heartfelt like, “You are not alone.”

It’s touching to see them put thought into their cards. When we finish, we make a plan to deliver them together.

Afterward, we head out to deliver our cards to friends, teachers, or neighboring schools. Watching the smiles on people’s faces is priceless.

It’s a little reminder that kindness is contagious. Plus, it teaches the students about community and connection. As we drive around, I share more stories about kindness and how it can spread, like a ripple effect.

If you’re looking for a fun family or even school activity that makes a positive impact, making kindness cards is an easy yet meaningful choice.

It’s something you can do together that not only strengthens family bonds but also spreads goodwill in your community. And who knows? Maybe you’ll inspire someone else to pay it forward!

9. Learn a Dance for World Ballet Day (October 4th)

October 4th is World Ballet Day, and what better way to celebrate than by learning some ballet moves with your kids and teens?

I’ll be honest; I haven’t put on a pair of toe shoes in over three decades, but that’s the beauty of it! A couple of years ago, I thought it’d be fun to have a dance-off in our living room, and it turned into a dance party like no other.

Find some ballet tutorials

You can kicked off our day by finding some online ballet tutorials. The kids will be immediately intrigued.

The youngest may started twirling around, pretending to be a graceful swan, while teens may roll their eyes but secretly enjoyed the challenge.

I have to admit, it is a riot watching them try to mimic the moves on screen. The giggles were endless!

Let kids create their own dance moves

To keep things fun and lighthearted, encourage everyone to create their own simple dance routine.

You can combine ballet with some pop music, which makes for an interesting blend of elegance and energy.

Who knows, a little bit of Tchaikovsky could get the kids moving. You can even set up a mini “performance” at the end, complete with applause from the parents (hey, we take what we can get!).

And let’s face it, as much as I love lounging on the couch, it’s important to get off our butts and get moving together. It’s a fun way to bond, exercise, and maybe even learn a little something new.

So, if you’re looking for an exciting way to spend an October day, why not bust out some ballet moves with your family?

10. Host a Spooky Movie Marathon Night with Teens

If there’s one thing that screams October, it’s a spooky movie marathon! I mean, who doesn’t love curling up with blankets and popcorn while watching some classic Halloween flicks?

A few years ago, I decided to host a movie night with my teens and young adults, and some of their cousins. Let me tell you, it turned into a legendary night of laughter and fright.

Transform your space for ultimate movie watching

First, we transformed our living room into a cozy movie-watching area. I pulled out all the blankets and pillows we could find, creating the ultimate setup.

We even dimmed the lights to set the spooky mood. My kids had a blast picking out Halloween-themed snacks, like seven layer nacho dip and popcorn tossed with candy corn.

There’s just something about watching a Halloween movie with snacks that makes it all the more exciting!

Choose the perfect Halloween movies

We chose a mix of family-friendly and genuinely scary movies to cater to all ages. The lineup included the classic “Hocus Pocus” and if they wanted more, “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

I’ll admit, I might have screamed a little louder than necessary during one of the jump scares, but hey, it’s all part of the fun!

Use our Fun Halloween Bingo Game

As we watched, we used a fun bingo game I created marking spaces like “Someone Screams” and “Thunder and Lighting.” It was a hilarious way to engage everyone and made for some great memories.

Plus, it was a good excuse to critique our favorite scary movie tropes. It was one of those nights where I felt the laughter and connection among us, which is what it’s all about.

So, if you’re looking to create a memorable night in October, consider hosting a spooky movie marathon. It’s a simple yet effective way to have fun while making memories. Who knows, it may just become a fun family tradition.

Download our Halloween Bingo Game at —>>> Family Movie Night Ideas

11. Go for a Fall-Themed Family Photo Shoot

Ah, fall! That magical time of year when the leaves turn golden, the air gets crisp, and our hearts get a little warmer. One of my favorite family traditions is heading out for a fall-themed photo shoot.

Head to a local park or forest with beautiful fall foliage for a family photo session.

It’s like capturing the essence of autumn in a frame, and trust me, it’s a blast. I remember one year, we headed to this gorgeous local park bursting with vibrant foliage.

The colors were stunning, but let’s just say getting the kids to cooperate was a whole other story.

Include props like pumpkins, blankets, or costumes for a festive touch.

For your family photo session, you can load up on props—pumpkins, cozy blankets, and even some silly costumes.

Why not have some fun with it? The kids may be initially skeptical about the whole idea, but once they see the fun props like the pumpkins, they may be all in.

Candid shots are priceless

Candid shots are so fun for the little ones. I’ll never forget the look on one of my kids’ faces when she discovered a giant pumpkin that was almost as tall as her.

We snapped candid shots of her trying to lift it, and those turned out to be some of my favorite moments!

Don’t Stress About Getting the Perfect Shot!

Here’s a little tip: don’t stress about everyone smiling perfectly at the camera. Some of our best shots came when I just let the kids be themselves.

Whether they were making goofy faces or wrestling with each other over who got to hold the biggest pumpkin, those spontaneous moments really captured the spirit of our family.

Plus, it helped that I had some snacks on hand to keep their spirits up. A little bribery never hurt anyone, right?

The magic doesn’t just end when the shoot is over. We love to display these photos around our home as reminders of those fun autumn days.

It’s a yearly tradition that not only brings us together but also creates beautiful memories we can treasure forever. And you know what? I can’t wait for our next shoot to see what hilarious moments we’ll capture next!

12. Visit a Pumpkin Patch and Pick Your Own Pumpkins

If you want to dive into the full fall experience, visiting a pumpkin patch is a must! Seriously, who doesn’t love a day spent wandering through rows of pumpkins, soaking in that fresh autumn air?

One year, we made a spontaneous trip to a local patch, and it turned out to be one of those perfect family days that you wish you could bottle up.

There were pumpkins of all shapes and sizes—some tiny and cute, others massive enough to make you think twice about rolling them home!

We let each of the kids choose their favorite pumpkin, and the process turned into a mini-adventure. One of the kids insisted on picking a pumpkin that was practically the size of her!

Make it a picture perfect moment

The best part? Taking pictures of them with their prized pumpkins. We even got into a little competition to see who could find the weirdest pumpkin.

Spoiler alert: My third child won with a lumpy, crooked gourd that looked like it had seen some things.

Have fun pumpkin carving

When we got home, it was time for the real fun—carving! We turned our kitchen into a pumpkin-sculpting studio, complete with bowls of gooey pumpkin guts everywhere.

And let me tell you, nothing quite compares to the creativity that bursts forth during these sessions. The kids had a blast, and their pumpkin designs were… well, let’s just say they were unique!

After all the carving was done, we roasted the pumpkin seeds together, and they made a delicious fall snack.

So, if you’re looking for an engaging family outing, grab your crew, head to a pumpkin patch, and make some awesome memories!

13. Play ‘Golf Bingo’ During a Miniature Golf Outing

Miniature golf is not just about putting a ball into a hole; it’s about laughter, competition, and family bonding.

The first time I introduced my kids to the idea of ‘Golf Bingo,’ I had no idea how much fun it would be. I mean, who doesn’t love a little twist to make things more exciting?

So, here’s the deal: we went to this super cool mini-golf course that had all sorts of obstacles—water hazards, windmills, you name it.

Try our golf bingo cards

Before we started, we created our bingo cards, filling them with challenges like “get a hole-in-one,” “hit a water hazard,” and “make a silly face.”

Download and print the golf bingo cards here —-> Mini Golf Date Night Ideas

Letting the teens take charge of creating the bingo cards was a blast. They got super creative, and it added an extra layer of excitement to the game.

As we played, the competition got fierce. I remember my youngest trying her hardest to get a hole-in-one while my third was off in the corner trying to hit the ball into a water hazard just to check it off his bingo card.

It’s those little moments of pure joy that make me realize how important it is to carve out time for fun family activities.

Connect with kids without screens

Plus, it’s a great way to connect with the kids without screens getting in the way. By the end of the game, not only did we have a bunch of silly photos and laughter under our belts, but we also had a bingo winner!

Who knew mini-golf could turn into such an epic family event? Check out our blog post here about teaching kids to play without electronics

So, if you’re looking for a fun family outing that combines competition with creativity, consider mini-golf with a twist. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

14. Bake Halloween Treats Together

Baking Halloween treats is basically a rite of passage in our family as soon as October hits. I mean, what’s not to love about making spooky goodies that you can eat while watching your favorite Halloween movies?

One year, we decided to go all out with a baking day, and it turned into a wild, flour-filled adventure that I still laugh about.

Choose your treat and gather ingredients

We gathered all our ingredients, and I made a list of Halloween-themed cookies, cupcakes, and brownies to whip up.

I could feel the excitement in the air as we donned our aprons. Let’s just say my kitchen quickly transformed into a chaotic, creative mess. The kids were supposed to be measuring ingredients, but I swear half of the flour ended up on the counter instead of in the bowl!

The joy of decorating with sprinkles and frosting

As we baked, the real fun began. Decorating was a highlight for sure! I set out a bunch of toppings—colorful icing, sprinkles, candy eyes—and let the kids unleash their creativity.

They took their decorating skills to another level. My oldest daughter made a cupcake that looked like a monster with jelly bean eyes and licorice for legs. Honestly, it was both impressive and slightly terrifying!

When it was all said and done, we had a spread of spooky treats that looked like they belonged in a Halloween magazine (or maybe not).

Invite friends and family over to share the goodies

We decided to host a little tasting party with friends and neighbors, which turned into a hilarious competition for the scariest treat. The kids loved showing off their creations, and the laughter echoed through our home.

So, if you’re looking for a fun, interactive family activity this fall, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bake some Halloween treats together. You’ll create delicious memories, and who knows? You might even start a fun new tradition!

15. Create Leaf Rubbing Art with Kids and Teens

When it comes to crafting, I’ve always been a huge fan of simple yet creative projects that bring the family together.

One autumn afternoon, I decided to dive into the world of leaf rubbing art with my kids and teens, and wow, did we have a fun time! Honestly, I was surprised at how engaging this activity turned out to be.

Collect different types of leaves

First, we headed out to collect different types of leaves from our backyard and the local park. The kids were so into it, running around and picking up every leaf they could find.

I even found myself getting caught up in the excitement, pointing out unique leaf shapes and sizes. There’s just something magical about fall leaves—their colors, shapes, and textures are like nature’s art.

Set up an art station

Once we had our collection, we set up a little art station with crayons and paper. I showed the kids how to place a leaf under a sheet of paper and then gently rub the crayon over it to reveal the leaf’s pattern.

It sounds so simple, but watching their faces light up as they discovered the intricate designs hidden beneath the paper was priceless. I swear, the joy in their eyes made the mess worth it.

Frame and display the artwork

As we worked, we compared our leaf rubbings and laughed at the different shapes and patterns we each got.

I loved how even my teens got into it—my youngest ended up creating a whole series of spooky leaf rubbings for Halloween. We eventually got some great frames and hung them around the house as festive decorations.

So, if you’re looking for a fun, creative way to connect with your kids this fall, give leaf rubbing art a try. It’s easy, affordable, and a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of nature while making art together!

16. Participate in a Family Fun Run or Charity Walk

Family fun runs or charity walks are more than just a good excuse to get out of the house; they can become cherished family traditions.

I’m not going to lie, I never run unless I’m being chased by a wild animal, but I’m all over walking for charity (or chocolate).

One such event was a local charity walk to raise funds for a cause we all cared about, and it ended up being one of those bonding experiences that brought us closer together.

Get matching t-shirts or wear the same colors

On the day of the event, the energy was contagious. We dressed up in matching Tshirts to show our spirit. I think we might have been the most colorful crew there! It was inspiring to see so many families participating, and we cheered each other on throughout the walk.

After the event, we celebrated our accomplishments with a picnic in the park. It felt great knowing we’d contributed to something meaningful while also spending quality time together.

Now, we make it a tradition to participate in a fun run or charity walk whenever possible.

If you’re looking for a fun way to get active as a family while supporting a good cause, I can’t recommend a fun run or charity walk enough. It’s an opportunity to bond, create memories, and make a positive impact in your community.

17. Visit a Corn Maze or Haunted House

When October rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of visiting a corn maze or haunted house to get into the Halloween spirit.

I remember one year, we decided to try out a local corn maze that was supposed to be one of the biggest in the area. It turned out to be an epic adventure filled with laughter, competition, and a few jump scares!

I’ll admit, I thought I’d be a great navigator, but I quickly found out that getting lost was part of the fun! The kids had a blast running around, trying to figure out the way out while playfully arguing about which path to take.

Turn the maze or haunted house into a competition

To make it even more exciting, we turned it into a competition to see who could navigate the maze the fastest. I distinctly remember one of my kids darting down a path, yelling, “I found the exit!” only to realize she’d been tricked by a false opening.

Later that fall, we decided to visit a haunted house. I’ll never forget the looks on their faces as we entered—half excitement, half terror!

My oldest, the bravest of the bunch, decided to take charge and lead the way, while my girls stayed glued to my side.

The combination of jump scares and spooky props kept us on our toes, and we ended up laughing more than screaming.

So if you’re looking for a fun way to embrace the fall season and bond as a family, I highly recommend visiting a corn maze or haunted house.

Whether you’re getting lost in a field of corn or screaming your heads off together, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!

18. Build a Blanket Fort Indoors and Tell Scary Stories

When the nights grow colder, and the days get shorter, what better way to celebrate the fall than by creating a cozy blanket fort and telling scary stories?

It can be a tradition in your home that never gets old! One evening, when my kids were younger, we decided it was time for an epic blanket fort night, and it turned into a memorable family bonding moments.

Decorate with blankets, pillows and lights

We gathered all the blankets, pillows, and few flash lights we could find, and soon enough, the living room transformed into a magical fortress.

There was a flurry of laughter as we fought over the best spots for our fort and argued about how to keep it standing. Pro tip: a few strategically placed chairs help a lot!

Don’t forget the snacks

Once the fort was built, we settled in with our snacks—popcorn, candy, and hot cocoa in hand—ready to share our favorite scary stories.

I encouraged everyone to get creative, and the kids did not disappoint. My youngest son’s story about a haunted doll had everyone on the edge of their seats, while my oldest’s over-the-top storytelling style made even the simplest tale hilarious.

Take turns telling stories

As the evening wore on, we took turns telling spooky and silly stories, and the laughter echoed through the room.

The combination of the cozy fort, dim lights, and the sound of our laughter created the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable night.

So if you’re looking for a way to cozy up this fall and create lasting memories, consider building an indoor blanket fort and sharing stories.

It’s a simple yet magical way to connect with your kids and enjoy some quality family time together!

19. Participate in a Local Trunk-or-Treat Event

Trunk-or-treat events have become a beloved tradition in our community, and for good reason! They’re a fun and safe way to celebrate Halloween, and they allow families to get creative with their car decorations.

The first time we participated, it was an absolute blast, and I knew it would become an annual tradition. There are some awesome trunk or treat supplies here.

Decide on a theme

We spent the days leading up to the event brainstorming ideas for our trunk’s theme. The kids got super into it, and we ended up settling on a “Monster Mash” theme.

Everyone in the family helped decorate the trunk with colorful streamers, spooky props, and, of course, a giant sign that read “Trick or Treat”.

By the end of the night, our trunk had turned into a social hub for families looking to chat and enjoy the festive spirit.

If you’re looking for a way to make Halloween even more special, consider participating in a local trunk-or-treat event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get creative, bond as a family, and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Conclusion for October Bucket List Ideas

October is filled with endless opportunities for fun, creativity, and family bonding. With these bucket list ideas for kids, teens, and families, you’ll have plenty of activities to enjoy throughout the month.

So grab your sweaters, gather your loved ones, and start checking off your October bucket list! Don’t forget to take plenty of photos and create memories that will last a lifetime.