5 Fun Ways to Enjoy the Fall with Family & Friends
Looking for cozy fall plans? Try these: 1) s’mores + stories around a concrete fire pit, 2) backyard movie night, 3) chili cook-off by the flames, 4) pumpkin-carving & crafts, 5) slow-brunch on the patio. Get simple backyard fire pit ideas and patio ideas with fire pit below.
As the air turns crisp and sunsets arrive earlier, your outdoor space becomes the perfect backdrop for memory-making. Whether you’re swapping ghost stories, watching the game, or carving pumpkins, the right fire feature—think durable concrete fire pit—keeps everyone warm, relaxed, and together. Below are five host-ready ideas you can run with this weekend, plus pro tips and product pointers to make it effortless.
- S’mores & Stories Night
(the classic—leveled up)
What to do:
Set out a s’mores bar with skewers, grahams, chocolate, and fun add-ins (salted caramel squares, peanut butter cups, cinnamon sugar). Cue a family story round or a 2-truths-and-a-lie game for laughs.
Pro tip:
If you’re using gas, choose a burner known for a bright, reliable flame and long-term durability—ideal for frequent hosting.
Why it works:
Fire + treats = instant bonding. A steady, tall flame makes roasting easy and Instagram-worthy.
- Backyard Movie Night
by the Flames
What to do:
Project a cozy flick (animated classic, light family comedy, or football replays) on a portable screen. Arrange lounge chairs and blankets in a semi-circle around your fire feature.
Pro tip:
Place the screen cross-breeze from the flame so heat shimmer doesn’t drift across the image. Keep path lighting low and warm for that cinema-by-starlight feel.
Why it works:
Combining outdoor fireplaces and fire pits with a movie blends ambiance and comfort—everyone stays outside longer.
- Chili Cook-Off
& Game Watch
What to do:
Invite friends to bring their best chili or soup. Label entries, hand out scorecards, and crown a winner at halftime.
Pro tip:
Add a toppings board (green onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, cornbread croutons). For seating, stagger stools and Adirondacks to create conversation nooks—one of the simplest patio ideas with fire pit that improves flow.
Why it works:
Food brings participation; the fire adds atmosphere. This is a sleeper hit for busy families because it’s mostly BYO.
- Pumpkin-Carving,
Crafts & Cider Station
What to do:
Spread kraft paper over tables for pumpkin carving, leaf rubbing, or wreath making. Keep hot cider (or mulled juice) on a side table and warm up between crafts at the fire.
Pro tip:
Add safe string lights overhead so you can carve before dusk and enjoy the fire after.
Why it works:
Hands-on activities keep kids engaged while adults mingle. Post-sunset, display everyone’s pumpkins around the flame for a cozy glow—Pinterest perfection.
- Slow-Brunch on a
Chilly Morning
What to do:
Bring brunch outside—pastries, fruit, a frittata or quiche—and set a coffee/tea station near the fire. Queue up an acoustic playlist.
Pro tip:
Use a compact bistro table behind your seating arc to keep mugs within reach without cluttering the main gathering zone.
Why it works:
Mornings can be crisp in fall; a fire turns “too cold” into “just right.” It’s a calm counterbalance to busy school-week schedules.
- S’mores & Stories Night
(the classic—leveled up)
What to do:
Set out a s’mores bar with skewers, grahams, chocolate, and fun add-ins (salted caramel squares, peanut butter cups, cinnamon sugar). Cue a family story round or a 2-truths-and-a-lie game for laughs.
Pro tip:
If you’re using gas, choose a burner known for a bright, reliable flame and long-term durability—ideal for frequent hosting.
Why it works:
Fire + treats = instant bonding. A steady, tall flame makes roasting easy and Instagram-worthy.
- Backyard Movie Night
by the Flames
What to do:
Project a cozy flick (animated classic, light family comedy, or football replays) on a portable screen. Arrange lounge chairs and blankets in a semi-circle around your fire feature.
Pro tip:
Place the screen cross-breeze from the flame so heat shimmer doesn’t drift across the image. Keep path lighting low and warm for that cinema-by-starlight feel.
Why it works:
Combining outdoor fireplaces and fire pits with a movie blends ambiance and comfort—everyone stays outside longer.
- Chili Cook-Off
& Game Watch
What to do:
Invite friends to bring their best chili or soup. Label entries, hand out scorecards, and crown a winner at halftime.
Pro tip:
Add a toppings board (green onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, cornbread croutons). For seating, stagger stools and Adirondacks to create conversation nooks—one of the simplest patio ideas with fire pit that improves flow.
Why it works:
Food brings participation; the fire adds atmosphere. This is a sleeper hit for busy families because it’s mostly BYO.
- Pumpkin-Carving,
Crafts & Cider Station
What to do:
Spread kraft paper over tables for pumpkin carving, leaf rubbing, or wreath making. Keep hot cider (or mulled juice) on a side table and warm up between crafts at the fire.
Pro tip:
Add safe string lights overhead so you can carve before dusk and enjoy the fire after.
Why it works:
Hands-on activities keep kids engaged while adults mingle. Post-sunset, display everyone’s pumpkins around the flame for a cozy glow—Pinterest perfection.
- Slow-Brunch on a
Chilly Morning
What to do:
Bring brunch outside—pastries, fruit, a frittata or quiche—and set a coffee/tea station near the fire. Queue up an acoustic playlist.
Pro tip:
Use a compact bistro table behind your seating arc to keep mugs within reach without cluttering the main gathering zone.
Why it works:
Mornings can be crisp in fall; a fire turns “too cold” into “just right.” It’s a calm counterbalance to busy school-week schedules.
create lasting memories
10 Ideas for family fireside
Looking for fresh ways to bring your family together and make the most of your outdoor space? This guide will help you create more meaningful family moments.
Quick Guide: Choosing the Right Fire Feature for Fall
Lean into durability
A concrete fire pit built with high-performance, fiber-reinforced concrete resists flaking and fading through wet, cold seasons. Pair it with corrosion-resistant, rust-proof brass burners for a steady, tall flame—ideal for hosting.
Match form to function
Fire pits excel at flexible seating and group games; fireplaces frame a focal wall and block wind—great for movie nights and intimate chats.
Think seasonal timing
Many families refresh outdoor spaces as the weather turns; fall is prime time to upgrade before holiday hosting.
Bring the indoors out.
Layer throws, outdoor-rated pillows, and side tables. If your living room is the heart of home life, a coordinated outdoor vignette extends that feeling.
Bonus: Planning an indoor glow-up too? Handcrafted mantels inspired by timeless designs can be installed quickly—perfect for a “fall nesting” weekend before guests arrive.
Backyard Fire Pit Ideas You Can Copy This Weekend
- Conversation arc: Arrange 4–6 chairs in a gentle semi-circle around the flame. Add a low coffee table to hold snacks.
- Zone the patio: Use an outdoor rug to define the fire area, string lights to pull the eye, and tall planters as soft “walls.”
- Kid-friendly corner: Create a low bench with storage for blankets, games, and s’mores supplies.
- Wind-aware layout: Place seating on the leeward side. Use your home or a privacy screen to block prevailing breezes.
- Warmth layering: Mix permanent heat (your fire feature) with portable heaters for edge seating.
Final Note
If you’re shopping upgrades for fall hosting, look for quality, reliability, durability, and service—from fiber-reinforced concrete bowls that won’t flake or fade to corrosion-resistant burners backed by strong support. That’s how you enjoy more nights outside, season after season. And if you’re refreshing the indoor hearth for chilly evenings, a handcrafted mantel inspired by timeless design can transform the room in an afternoon.
FAQs
What’s the difference between outdoor fireplaces and fire pits?
Fire pits offer 360° seating and flexible layouts—great for groups and games. Fireplaces deliver a wind-blocking focal point and a more intimate lounge feel.
Are gas concrete fire pits safe for fall use?
Yes, when installed to code and used per the manual. Look for ETL-listed appliances and quality components for reliability season after season.
What are easy patio ideas with fire pit for small yards?
Choose a compact round bowl, use stackable chairs, and zone with a 5’–7’ rug. Add vertical planters to save floor space.
How do I keep smoke out of guests’ faces?
Seat guests on the leeward side and orient your setup with local wind patterns; consider gas for a smokeless experience.
Inspiration
Looking for more ideas?
Take a look at our product gallery for more inspiration, or follow us on Instagram to keep up with the latest trends and promotions.
As a partner at DreamCast, she has been immersed in the decorative concrete industry since 2007, specializing in fire pits & mantels. With a passion for interior design her expertise drives innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship.
Author
Catherine Traschenko
Fire Products
Design Specialist
Author
Catherine Traschenko
Fire Products
Design Specialist