Enjoying fall activities without breaking the bank

ST. JOSEPH, Mo (News-Press NOW) — The first day of fall is less than a week away, and people are eager for the cooler temperatures to stick around, colorful scenery and seasonal activities. 

Fall traditions like corn mazes, apple and pumpkin picking and tractor rides are highly encouraged, but prices can add up quickly.

With Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas approaching, now is a good time to start budgeting for the busy and pricey holiday season. 

Nicolas Gertsma, CEO of Gertsma Wealth Advisors, said families can still enjoy fall traditions without breaking the bank. 

“A family can enjoy their fall and do a lot of activities if they set a budget and stick to it,” Gertsma said. “So when you think about going to the pumpkin patch, your first thought is, well, I'm gonna buy a pumpkin and buy a handful of pumpkins, but then you see the apple butter, then you buy dinner. It’s all about balance and making sure you have the willpower to stay within your budget when you're at those activities.”

Local orchards and pumpkin patches around the Northwest Missouri area, like Schweizer Orchards and the Weston Red Barn Farm, offer free admission and relatively inexpensive activities. 

Corey Schweizer, CEO of Schweizer Orchards and a 4th-generation owner, also encourages families to find affordable ways to celebrate their busiest season. 

“We've kept all of and most of our prices exactly the same,” Schweizer said. "When it comes to your wallet, he states, “It's all up to what you want to do; it's a minimum of zero, all the way up to what you want to do.”

Schweizer Orchards offers many of the same seasonal activities as years past, including games and cannons. They currently have you-pick apples and pumpkins. Hayrides also begin the last weekend of September.

Other ways to not overspend are to participate in simple traditions such as bonfires, hikes and the many free community events St. Joseph has to offer over the next few months. Some of those activities include the Southside Fall Festival, PumpkinFest and more.