10 Fall-Inspired Ideas for Grieving the Loss of a Loved One

1. Go on a Hike

What better way is there to enjoy fall than going on a walk and looking at the fall colors? Whether it’s on a trail or by your loved one’s gravesite or ash scattering location, it’s a peaceful activity. This way, you can clear your mind or have a space to think about your loved one.

2. Carve a Pumpkin with Their Initials

If you usually carve a pumpkin, switch it up this year by turning it into a memento. For example, you can carve their initials or birth and death dates. Or, if painting is more your style, you can paint your pumpkin instead.

3. Make a Memorial Blanket

There are many memorial blanket possibilities for all skill levels, no matter how crafty you are. For example, you can make a fleece tie blanket with their favorite colors, T-shirt blanket with their old shirts, or a crocheted blanket.

4. Cook Their Favorite Fall Dish

Another idea is to cook their favorite fall dish, whether that’s their own recipe or their go-to treat. For example, you can make their favorite pie, bread, or soup! Or, make something new that you think they would have enjoyed.

5. Donate in Their Honor

Give back in your loved one’s honor by collecting donations for a cause they were passionate about. For example, you can collect canned goods for your local food pantry or collect warm clothing for the upcoming winter season.

6. Watch Their Favorite Fall Movie

For a more relaxing activity, watch your loved one’s favorite fall or Halloween movie! If you want some company, invite your family and friends to watch it with you. You can even serve the fall dish you make! Or, make it a potluck!

7. Host a Bonfire

Gather around a fire with your loved ones to share stories and memories of your loved one. If your loved one liked bonfires and camping, you can play their favorite campfire game. You also can serve your fall dish as a snack!

8. Create a Scavenger Hunt

If you’re looking for a more creative idea, create a scavenger hunt based on your loved one’s interests. For example, you can have your loved ones find their favorite items and places throughout your town. To prove they found them, they can take a selfie with the item or place. And, you guessed it, the winner can receive the fall dish you make!

9. Run in a Race

Create a team in your loved one’s memory for running or walking in a local race. Whether it’s for a cause they were passionate about or raising awareness for a disease, you will make them proud.

10. Plant Fall Flowers

If your loved one was an avid gardener or just enjoyed flowers, plant some in their memory. For example, some fall flowers are chrysanthemums, asters, and pansies. You also can decorate a garden stone to place by the flowers.