Unveiling America’s Top Fall Traditions: Insights From the Autumn Adventures Survey
As the days grow shorter and the air takes on a crisp chill, the arrival of fall brings a wave of excitement across the United States. To better understand how Americans celebrate this beloved season, we surveyed 3,000 residents to discover their favorite fall festivities, preferred holidays, and the best spots for autumn adventures nationwide. Here’s what we learned about the nation’s top fall obsessions, regional trends, and the activities that make autumn so special.
Essential Takeaways from the Nationwide Fall Survey
Our findings reveal just how passionate the country is about the autumn season and its traditions:
– 65% of respondents are most excited for Halloween celebrations this year.
– Halloween narrowly outranks Thanksgiving, with 50.9% picking Halloween and 49.1% favoring Thanksgiving.
– Mississippi stands out as the ultimate fall destination, with 78% of locals engaging in a range of autumnal events, decorations, and festivities.
How Americans Really Feel About Fall
Seasonal décor fills stores by late September, but just how deep is the love for fall? According to the survey, Americans’ affection for autumn eclipses that for any other time of year. More than half (56%) name fall as their favorite season—easily outpacing spring and summer (16% each), while winter trails far behind at just 10%.
Survey visual: A breakdown of American preferences and participation during the fall season.
Not only is fall the clear winner, but a whopping 56% of Americans expressed their enthusiasm at the highest level. These autumn enthusiasts mark the season by transforming their home décor, savoring fall-inspired food and drinks, and even curating special TV or movie playlists to match the mood. It’s a season for all-out celebration and ritual.
The Most Popular Fall Activities Across the U.S.
Homes across the country display harvest-themed touches—think pun-filled hand towels and vibrant, leaf-strewn decorations—but Americans also love engaging in outdoor pastimes. The nation’s top autumn activities, as revealed by the survey, include:
– Participating in Halloween traditions: 61% cite Halloween (trick-or-treating, haunted houses, dressing up) as the top highlight of fall.
– Decorating homes with seasonal flair came in a close second.
– Watching football and attending games claims third place among favorite fall pastimes.
On the flip side, not every tradition is a hit. Bobbing for apples is the least favored fall activity, proving especially unpopular. Tailgating, despite football’s enduring appeal, is the second least enjoyed, and hayrides come third from the bottom—perhaps not everyone enjoys bumpy rides in an open field!
America’s Leading Cities for Autumn Experiences
While New England’s foliage is legendary, our survey mapped out the cities where residents go above and beyond to celebrate fall. We ranked each city by participation in autumn events, local enthusiasm, and the number of themed festivals per capita. The best U.S. cities for fall celebrations are:
| Rank | City | Participation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleveland | 94.8% |
| 2 | Kansas City | 92.0% |
| 3 | Pittsburgh | 91.9% |
| 4 | Chicago | 91.4% |
| 5 | Athens | 90.0% |
| 6 | Philadelphia | 89.0% |
| 7 | New York City | 88.9% |
| 8 | Las Vegas | 88.6% |
| 9 | Orlando | 88.4% |
| 10 | Charleston | 88.0% |
The results demonstrate that the East Coast predominates, with 8 out of the top 10 fall-loving cities located in the eastern half of the country.
States That Stand Out for Fall Festivities
Beyond urban celebrations, some states take autumn participation to another level. Topping our state list is Mississippi, where enthusiasm for the season is contagious. From balloon festivals to themed events like “Cruisin’ the Coast,” Mississippi residents truly embrace every aspect of fall.
Connecticut follows closely, earning “second-best state for autumn,” thanks to its forests, hiking trails, and a long tradition of seasonal events. In third place, Massachusetts’ rich history—including Salem’s Halloween festivities and Thanksgiving’s origins—helps make it a mecca for fall lovers, with over 70% of locals actively participating in fall celebrations.
Comparing Halloween and Thanksgiving: Which Holiday Reigns Supreme?
Ask any American whether they prefer their pumpkin carved or baked into a pie, and you’re starting a debate that reveals much about autumn loyalties. When it comes to national preference, Halloween narrowly outpaces Thanksgiving as the fall holiday of choice, with 50.9% of survey participants picking Halloween and 49.1% voting for Thanksgiving.
Yet, when participants chose between atmosphere and energy, the scales tipped toward comfort. A full 67% prefer a “cozy” autumn—think blankets, hot drinks, and movie marathons—while 33% lean toward the “spooky” side with haunted houses and eerie décor.
Conclusion: Why Fall Captures America’s Heart
This season brings with it the vibrant hues of falling leaves and a sense of renewal. With over half the country naming fall as their favorite, Americans go all out—whether that means embracing the spooky spectacle of Halloween, decorating homes, watching football, or relishing cozy holiday gatherings. Wherever you are, the arrival of autumn delivers a welcome reason to celebrate.
Research Approach
Our survey was conducted in September 2024, reaching 3,000 U.S. residents. The sample reflected a diverse population: 53.2% female, 45% male, and just over 2% identifying as non-binary, transgender, or another gender identity.
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