Fall Calendar Checklist: 10 Essential Things to Manage This Season

As the leaves start to change and temperatures drop, fall brings a whole new set of to-dos. With a mix of home maintenance, holiday prep, and seasonal activities, staying organized can feel overwhelming.

But don’t worry! I’ve put together a Fall Calendar Checklist to help you navigate the season smoothly. Plus, I’ve included two FREE resources: a printable checklist to track your tasks and a holiday budget spreadsheet to keep your finances in check. Let’s dive into the 10 essential things to manage this fall!

1. Seasonal Home Maintenance

Fall is the perfect time to handle those home tasks before winter arrives. Here are some key items to focus on:

  • Gutter Cleaning: Schedule a time to clear leaves and debris from your gutters to prevent water damage.

  • Furnace Checks: Whether you hire a professional or go the DIY route, make sure your heating system is ready for colder days.

  • Window Sealing and Insulation: Improve energy efficiency by resealing windows or adding insulation.

  • Outdoor Furniture Storage: Cover or store your outdoor furniture to avoid weather damage over the winter.

2. Holiday Planning

The holidays will be here before you know it, so start planning early to avoid last-minute stress.

  • Family Gatherings: Coordinate with family members and set dates for any holiday get-togethers.

  • Travel Plans: Book any flights or accommodations well in advance to secure good deals.

  • Shopping Deadlines: Create a timeline for purchasing gifts and holiday essentials to stay organized.

3. Health Checkups

Fall is a great time to catch up on any health appointments you might have missed.

  • Annual Checkups: Book your yearly physical if you haven’t already.

  • Flu Shots: Schedule flu vaccines for you and your family to stay healthy this season.

  • Dental Cleanings: Get a head start on year-end dental appointments before the holiday rush.

4. Fall Activities

Don’t forget to enjoy the fun side of fall! There are plenty of seasonal activities to plan with family and friends.

  • Pumpkin Patch Visits: Set aside a weekend to visit a local pumpkin patch for some festive fun.

  • Hayrides and Fall Festivals: Check out dates for local hayrides, fairs, and festivals in your area.

  • Halloween Prep: Start planning your costumes, decorations, and trick-or-treat routes if you celebrate Halloween.

5. End-of-Year Work Deadlines

As the year winds down, it's important to stay on top of work-related deadlines and projects.

  • Project Deadlines: Make a list of any major projects due before the holidays.

  • Annual Reports: Prepare for any end-of-year reports or presentations that need your attention.

  • Holiday Time Off: Coordinate your time off with your workload to avoid last-minute stress.

6. Community Events

Fall is also a great time to get involved in your local community.

  • Charity Runs and Walks: Many local charities hold events like 5Ks or walks—consider signing up for a good cause.

  • Volunteer Opportunities: Find ways to give back, whether through food drives or volunteering at shelters.

  • Local Fairs and Markets: Support small businesses by attending fall fairs and markets showcasing local artists and vendors.

7. Winter Prep for Your Car

Don’t forget about prepping your vehicle for the colder months ahead.

  • Tire Rotation or Replacement: Check your tire tread and schedule a rotation or replacement if necessary.

  • Oil Changes: A fresh oil change before winter ensures your engine stays in good shape.

  • Winter Survival Kit: Pack a kit with essentials like blankets, a flashlight, and snacks in case of emergencies.

8. Financial Review Meetings

Now is the perfect time to take stock of your finances and prepare for the new year.

  • Tax Planning: Meet with your accountant to strategize how to minimize your tax bill.

  • Investment Review: Review your portfolio to ensure you're on track with your financial goals.

  • Budgeting for Holidays: Use our FREE holiday budget spreadsheet to create a spending plan for gifts, travel, and festivities.

9. Holiday Shopping Start Dates

Starting your holiday shopping early can help you stay on budget and reduce stress.

  • Make a List: Write down everyone you need to shop for and what you plan to buy.

  • Set a Schedule: Designate specific weekends or days to shop for gifts, décor, and holiday supplies.

  • Spread Out Spending: By starting early, you can take advantage of sales and spread out your spending across the season.

10. Time Off Requests

If you plan on taking time off during the holidays, now is the time to submit those requests.

  • Submit Early: Get ahead of the crowd by requesting your holiday leave as soon as possible.

  • Coordinate with Colleagues: Make sure your team is aware of your plans so they can adjust accordingly.

  • Plan Backup Coverage: Arrange for a colleague to cover your duties while you’re away to ensure things run smoothly.


And that’s your ultimate fall calendar checklist! With this guide and the FREE printable checklist and holiday budget spreadsheet, you’ll be ready to tackle all the seasonal tasks while still making time to enjoy the festivities. Make sure to download your freebies to stay on top of your fall planning and budgeting.

What are you most excited to plan for this fall? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more tips on staying organized through every season!