Ever wonder what the locals do in Lake Geneva, WI when the season changes into fall? What we do when the kids are back to school, the refreshing lake has started to feel more like the polar plunge, and the local beer gardens have closed for the summer? Well, look no further.

We are full of ideas – one for every one of your senses!

Autumn is in the air

We love the smell of leaves burning in the distance, grills going for those Sunday Packer games, and the hot cider being warmed on the stove. Bring a fall scent inside this season to help welcome your guests or to enjoy when you’re curled up with a good book. Try one of our favorites…

You can’t go wrong with Mulled Cider by Milkhouse Creamery. It’s a soy and beeswax blend – it’s not too strong or too light…it’s just right! You’ll enjoy 50 hours of this spiced candle and for only $15 – what a steal!

Feel like treating yourself?! Try a candle from Lafco’s House & Home Collection. We love Foyer for this time of year ($64). It’s the perfect blend of soy and essential oils from black vanilla, amber, and patchouli. Side note – this candle keeps on giving. Reserve the hand blown vessel for a variety of uses – vase, makeup brushes, pens or even a large cocktail.

Nature’s Palette

When we’re not treating ourselves to the local eateries, like Simple Café, Oakfire, or Medussa, we’re staying in to create our own masterpiece. We love cooking with what’s in season – so what better time to make a savory Pumpkin Soup. Try it for yourself!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks of celery, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less to taste)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 6 Cups vegetable stock
• 1 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
• 20 ounces pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds, garnish
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, garnish
• Optional: drizzle of cashew cream

Fall’s Coloring Book

Now is the time to take advantage of the warm sun shining through the puffy white clouds, the cool breeze, and colorful landscape. What better time to take a walk on the Lake Geneva shore path!? Take a Shore Path guide with you to read up on the historic homes or just notice the beauty of the glistening water, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet, and the festival of fall colors in the trees. Find any of these Lake Geneva books at Brick & Mortar Home!

Find the Perfect Pumpkin

It’s time to get hands on! Find your perfect pumpkin at Pearce Farms in Walworth. This is a perfect family-friendly outing. Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch, chase through the 12-acre corn maze, and enjoy a helicopter ride. Don’t forget to stay hydrated while spending the day outside. S’well water bottles are the perfect accessory to any fall outing. The large bottles will hold 25 oz. ($45) – Coincidentally, that is a whole bottle of wine! The small bottle holds 17 oz. ($35). Side note – whatever your beverage is, be assured that it will stay cool for 24 hours or hot for 12. Get yours here!

Hustle and Bustle of Oktoberfest

Come join us October 7th and 8th for Lake Geneva’s Oktoberfest. What better time to show off your newest fall sweater and boots. Venture out and listen to the town come alive with the sounds of celebrations. Live music, apple cider donuts (get in line now) and festivities for all ages.

Well, that’s a little peek into what we like to do in the fall – Lake Geneva style. If you have any favorite fall memories, events, or recipes – we’d love to hear from you. Please share in the comments below.