Check these five fall must-dos off your list

Here are five activities Epitaph staffers enjoy doing during the fall season. What’s on your checklist? Post pictures of your fun fall activities and tag us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook. We are so excited to see what you do this fall!

5. Watch your fave fall films on Netflix

“Coraline” (PG)– An unexpectedly scary movie intended for kids, but that people of all ages can enjoy. A girl named Coraline explores a parallel universe with “better” parents and lifestyle. This movie will take you through different dimensions and thrillers. Make sure you stay tuned to the end to find out which mom she chooses. 

“Coco” (PG)– A Disney Pixar movie about a young aspiring musician named Miguel whose family has banned all music. On the Day of the Dead, Miguel travels to the colorful Land of the Dead to find his grandfather and learn the truth about his family’s history. 

“Scream” (R)– “Scream” is a comedy horror movie released in 1996 about a fright-masked serial killer who stalks and kills high-school students in the small town of Woodsboro. The tongue-in-cheek approach that “Scream” takes makes gives it that timeless modern horror classic feel.

“Murder Mystery” (PG-13)– A police officer and his wife take a vacation to Europe to reinvigorate their marriage, but get framed for the murder of an elderly billionaire instead. Starring Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston, this comedy-mystery is sure to make viewers laugh. 

“The Theory of Everything” (PG-13)– This movie is based on the life of Stephen Hawking, one of the most notorious scientists of our time. This romantic comedy highlights his struggle with ALS, as he learns to balance the disease with his wife and children. 

4. Bake something delicious with your friends

Pumpkin Cookies– This is a super easy recipe to follow and makes a great cookie. You can decorate these however you like and use different cookie cutters to make the cookies into your favorite fall shapes.

Apple Cobbler This is a nice flip on the traditional Apple Pie and is equally delicious. Apple Cobbler is a good mix of crisp and gooey textures, resulting in a perfect cinnamon-filled dessert. Feel free to top it off with a nice scoop of ice cream.

Apple Cider Donuts– These are a little more difficult to make, but definitely worth the effort. These donuts are baked not fried and the cinnamon topping finishes the donut off nicely.

Apple Pie Cupcake– This spin on apple pie is made up of cinnamon roll dough, spiced apples and a crumble topping.

3. Start your holiday shopping early on Black Friday

Stanford Shopping Center– Usually, Stanford Shopping Center is reserved for the more expensive stores, but when it comes to Black Friday, stores like Anthropologie, Free People, Urban Outfitters, and Gap have sales over 50 percent. In the past, our reporters have noted that the stores are not crowded, but still practice Black Friday traditions. Make sure to show up as soon as the stores open to pick out the best clothes before other shoppers snatch them up! 

Target– Great deals on a large variety of items, ranging from tech to clothes to home decor. Tip: you don’t need to go to Target right when it opens at 7 a.m. unless you are trying to get a big-ticket item like a TV. Otherwise, wait until the afternoon to browse deals; the store may be a bit messy, and some items may be sold out, but there will still be a lot of good deals you can snag.

Amazon– Cyber Monday is a huge hit with Amazon. With fast shipping and huge sales of millions of items, you can’t go wrong. 

2. Go for a hike!

Rancho San Antonio– Rancho is a local hiking spot that is open from sunrise to sunset. It is roughly 15 minutes from HHS and has plenty of parking for the whole family. Unfortunately, there are no dogs allowed on the trails, but there is a little park at the base of the trail where you can sit and play. There are 16 trails in total that hikers may use; they range from all-day hikes to simple strolls. 

Mission Peak– Mission Peak is located in Fremont, which is 30-40 minutes away, depending on traffic. This park is well known for its perfect view of the Bay Area, but is a challenge for most people; the 6-mile hike mostly inclines, but it is very rewarding to finish. Fortunately, dogs are allowed on this trail, but make sure you get there as soon as it opens at 6:30 a.m. because parking is limited. 

 1. Try this fun activity at your annual “Friendsgiving”

Decorate pumpkin cookies! Scroll back up tp #4 for the recipe.