Fall Pastime Poll: Preferred Autumn Pastimes Across America
Americans have declared fall (autumn) as their favourite season, according to a recent YouGov poll, with 39% naming it their top choice, ahead of spring (26%) and summer (21%)[1]. This strong cultural affinity for autumn-related events and experiences is evident in the various activities, cities, and states that Americans cherish during this season.
In terms of favourite fall activities, based on common trends and popular events, apple and fruit picking, fall festivals, haunted houses, cideries, amusement park festivals, and Halloween events are among the most enjoyed[2][4]. The Finger Lakes region in New York, the Pacific Northwest (Oregon), and Southern California are renowned for providing unique and memorable experiences during fall[2][4].
The Finger Lakes region is a hub for fall activities, offering quintessential experiences such as apple picking, fall festivals, cider tastings, and autumn events[2]. The Pacific Northwest, on the other hand, is celebrated for its vibrant leaf colors, cozy fall ambiance, and seasonal outdoor activities[4]. Southern California, known for its large amusement park fall festivals and Halloween events, offers more entertainment-driven fall experiences, especially for teens and families[4].
Other notable locations for fall festivities include various national parks and scenic areas throughout the U.S., which offer hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife tours showcasing fall foliage[3].
Mississippi ranks as the best state to spend fall, with 78% of its residents celebrating, decorating, and participating in autumnal activities. The state hosts the Natchez Balloon Festival and "Cruisin' the Coast" during fall[1]. Mississippi is followed by Connecticut and Massachusetts, which rank as the 2nd and 3rd best states for fall, respectively[1].
Halloween is the most anticipated and preferred fall activity, with 61% of the nation in favor. It is also the most preferred fall activity, favored by 50.9% of the surveyed Americans. Thanksgiving is the second most preferred fall activity, favored by 49.1% of the surveyed Americans[1].
Decorating the house for fall is the second favorite activity, as reported by Americans, followed by watching football and attending games, which ranks as the third favorite fall activity[1]. However, hayrides and bobbing for apples are among the least desired activities, with only 17% planning to participate in hayrides this season, and bobbing for apples being the least favorite fall activity among Americans[1].
The survey, conducted in September 2024, gathered data on Americans' feelings about fall, with 56% putting a "5" for how much they celebrate fall. The survey had a representative sample comprising 53.2% female, 45% male, and over 2% non-binary, transgender, and/or other[1].
In conclusion, Americans cherish the atmosphere and activities of fall, with a mix of outdoor harvest fun, festive celebrations, and seasonal food and drinks defining the best fall experiences across various states and cities. Finger Lakes, Salem (Oregon area), and Southern California are highlighted as top destinations for autumn festivities[2][4].
[1] YouGov Poll, September 2024 [2] Fall Festivals in the USA: A Guide to the Best Events and Destinations, Travel + Leisure, 2023 [3] Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the USA, National Geographic, 2022 [4] Top Fall Destinations in the U.S., USA Today, 2021
- Americans eagerly anticipate Halloween as their most preferred fall activity, with 61% expressing enthusiasm for the event, making it the most favored fall activity, as revealed by the YouGov poll.
- Decorating homes for fall is the second-favorite activity, according to Americans, following closely behind Halloween.
- Besides the traditional autumn activities like apple picking and fall festivals, the Finger Lakes region in New York is a hub for quintessential fall experiences, offering activities such as cider tastings and autumn events.
- The Pacific Northwest is celebrated for its vibrant leaf colors, cozy fall ambiance, and seasonal outdoor activities, making it an appealing destination during the fall season.
- Mississippi ranks as the best state to spend fall, with 78% of its residents actively participating in autumnal activities, according to the YouGov poll. The state is known for hosting events like the Natchez Balloon Festival and "Cruisin' the Coast" during the fall season.
