Autumn may be one of the best times of the year. The heat of summer has dwindled and formed into chilly nights, the days have become shorter and the leaves begin to fall. Layers are in style and there is pumpkin flavored everything. This changes of season leads to new activities and ways for you to spend your weekends. Below area few ideas on how you can make the most of this beautiful fall season.

1. The Pumpkin Patch

This is a staple of Omaha in the fall. Vala’s Pumpkin Patch has been a tradition since 1984 when it was solely a pumpkin patch. Today it has grown into so much more. It is a place where you and a ton of friends can go and enjoy fall. With two haunted houses, pumpkin go-karts, a corn maze, and many fall foods — like kettle corn, vintage candy and caramel apples — Vala’s offers excitement for hours.

 2. Haunted Houses

Open only in the months of September and October, haunted houses are an easy, albeit slightly pricey way to spend a Friday or Saturday night. Some of Omaha’s top and most well known haunted houses include Mystery Manor, Scary Acres, Shadow’s Edge and Nightmare on Q Street. While the scares only last for 30 minutes, haunted houses are a great way to bond with friends and get close to your crush after a scare.

 3. Watch Scary Movies

Classic horror films and psychological thrillers are the way to go this Halloween. Skip the new remakes and check out originals like Nightmare on Elm Street, Carrie and Halloween. And for a real fright, test out a psychological thrill like Silence of the Lambs, The Shining or The Ring. Invite a few friends over, pop some popcorn and cuddle under the blankets for the full effect.

 4. Rake Leaves

Without a doubt, this activity may be one of the most fun to do during the fall season. There is nothing like spending a few hours outside with a plastic rake in hand. And, of course, when you’re done you have a great pile to jump into.

 5. Football

Picture this: it is Friday night, you are decked out in red and black from your Alpaca Hat to your sheep skinned boots, huddled together with 50 of your closest friends, instant hot chocolate in hand while screaming, yelling and cheering for your classmates as they brave chilly temperatures and the opposing team’s 300 pound linemen. This is a high school football game. Football, whether it be high school, college or pro is a must during the fall season. So head out this Friday to Papillion-LaVista South to cheer on the Warriors, tune in to ESPN this Saturday at 11 a.m. to watch the Huskers or spend your Sunday checking updates to see if the Chiefs remain undefeated. Football is America’s past time and fall wouldn’t be the same without it.