One of the best things about living in the desert is the coming of fall and cooler temperatures. However, if autumn in your hometown included brisk temperatures and the changing of leaves, you may feel a wave of homesickness or nostalgia when October rolls around and the forecast in Henderson is still in the “cool” 80s.
Fear not, desert dwellers, we have some tips to make fall feel more “fall.”
Play Pretend Dress-Up, Fall-Style
While a chunky sweater is sort of off-limits until the true cooler temps roll around, you can still bust out some of your cold-weather clothing. The trick is to use the pieces sparingly, a short sleeve t-shirt can look great with a beanie, and a lightweight scarf can be placed over a breezy dress. You don’t necessarily have to be “that” guy or gal who is wearing a full-fledged autumn outfit while it’s still so hot outside.
Light It Up Up Up!
A warm flame has the ability to make a home feel undeniably cozy. Amp it up another level and bring a fall scent into your home. We recommend the Boulangerie Pumpkin Soufflé from Anthropologie.
Three Words: Pumpkin Spiced Latte
At this point, a pumpkin spiced latte (PSL) is old news. But, there’s a reason everyone still talks about it. It can feel like the induction to autumn. You don’t have to go to Starbucks to get your own PSL, many local coffee shops, like Jolly Beans Café, offer their own delicious version. Make it your mission to find your favorite PSL. Not only will it be fun and delicious, but you’ll also have something to look forward to next year when fall rolls around again.
Enjoy Early Mornings and Late Night Temps
Living in the desert has many advantages, one of them is: if you don’t like the temperature now, wait a few hours and it can change drastically. Make an effort to enjoy the outdoors after the sun sets and before the sun rises so you can enjoy those cooler temperatures that feel quintessentially fall.
Go Full-Scale Martha on Your Home
Decorating your home with warm tones, fall foliage, and pumpkins galore is the perfect way to make it feel like fall. The best part? These decorations can stay up from the beginning of October until the end of November, as they’re appropriate for Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Eat All of the Fall Foods
Let’s talk food and drinks. Pumpkin bread, pumpkin cookies — pretty much all things pumpkin —, cocktails with items like cranberries and green apples, a hot toddy, or sweet potatoes as a dinner side can really get you into the fall spirit. Find a fall recipe that’s right for you. (We recommend the pancakes!)
Listen to Artists That Sound Like Fall
Certain musicians and songs are the perfect way to get you into the autumn mood. We recommend artists like the Head and the Heart, Bon Iver, The Oh Hellos, Fleet Foxes, and Spotify fall playlists like this one.
Change Your Perspective Elevation
If all else fails: head to a higher elevation. Mt. Charleston features tons of hiking, campgrounds, cabins, and, most importantly, the changing of seasons. The area is only one hour away, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway.
We hope these tips help everyone feel like they’re enjoying a full dose of autumn in Henderson, Nevada. And, of course, what better way to enjoy the season than to attend special fall events close to home? Check our calendar out to see what’s coming up!