It’s been a rare fall here in Texas—meaning that we’ve actually experienced something approximating one, rather than the usual blistering-hot-to-brief-freeze we experience in the October to February corridor. We’ve had sunny and mid-80s conditions here, which is prime fair and carnival weather, so we’ve been outdoors quite a bit. Take a peek:

State Fair of Texas

I’ll be the first to admit that the state fair has gotten a wee bit out of hand. For one, it costs an arm and a leg to go, even if you score one of those free tickets they give to teachers and students. Moreover, this trend of frying anything within arm’s length and calling it a delicacy has gone on way too long. I love fair food as much as the next guy—especially if we’re talking Fletcher’s corn dogs, which are worth the wait—but let’s class it up, folks. Fried beer does not count.

Dallas Arboretum Pumpkin Festival

If you live in the DFW Metroplex, the Dallas Arboretum is worth the occasional trip at any time, but it knocks fall out of the park. They bring in around 70 bazillion (yes, I counted) pumpkins and create a pretty awesome scene—not to mention that they serve a bit of German fare. Be prepared, however, as everyone brings their kids; the whole thing is a bit of a stroller traffic jam.

Boerne Pumpkin Patch

Even Boerne gets in the pumpkin game; every year, the Methodist church trucks in quite a few and sets up shop in Veterans Park. It’s a fundraiser, but just as many people come just to look and take pictures. We got a few winners with the family. Plus, the boy ate an entire 10-pound pumpkin while we were there. I promise.