September is all about the start of autumn, new routines, and making the most of seasonal change. This Could-Do List is filled with fun, flexible ideas to keep the whole family inspired — no pressure, just possibilities.
From quirky celebration days to cultural festivals and autumn adventures, here are some brilliant ways to make memories this September.
🎉 Special Days & Celebrations
5th September – Mawlid (Milad-un-Nabi)
Celebrate with sweet date treats or acts of kindness.
- What it represents: The Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, a day of compassion, charity, and reflecting on his teachings.
5th September – Onam
Make a simple flower rangoli or cook a vegetarian feast.
- What it represents: A Hindu harvest festival from Kerala, honouring King Mahabali and celebrating abundance and community.
6th September – Ananta Chaturdashi
Craft paper elephants or lotus flowers.
- What it represents: The last day of Ganesh Chaturthi, when idols of Lord Ganesha are immersed in water, symbolising renewal and protection.
11th September – Coptic New Year (Nayrouz)
Design colourful greeting cards.
- What it represents: The Coptic Orthodox New Year, remembering martyrs and celebrating new beginnings.
16th September – World Ozone Day
Make posters about protecting the planet.
- What it represents: A UN day raising awareness about safeguarding the ozone layer and tackling climate change.
21st September – International Day of Peace & World Alzheimer’s Day
Write “peace pledges” on leaves and hang them on a tree; talk about kindness and empathy.
- What they represent: A UN day for ceasefire and non-violence, plus a chance to raise awareness and support people affected by dementia.
22–24th September – Rosh Hashanah
Dip apple slices in honey as a sweet family treat.
- What it represents: The Jewish New Year, a time of reflection, renewal, and hope.
22nd September – Autumn Equinox / Mabon
Collect leaves, balance an egg on its end, and watch the sunset.
- What it represents: A Pagan harvest festival marking balance between day and night, giving thanks for nature’s bounty.
22nd September – Sharad Navratri Begins
Decorate with colourful lights or try a simple dance at home.
- What it represents: Nine nights dedicated to Goddess Durga, celebrating courage and the triumph of good over evil.
28th September – Durga Puja
Read stories of Durga’s battle with Mahishasura and make paper goddess crowns.
- What it represents: A Hindu festival celebrating Durga’s victory over the demon, symbolising strength and protection.
29th September – World Heart Day
Go for a family bike ride or obstacle course.
- What it represents: Raising awareness about heart health and encouraging active lifestyles.
🎪 Festivals, Events & Adventures
🎭 Heritage Open Days (12–21 September)
Across England, thousands of historic buildings and gardens open their doors for free. A brilliant way to explore hidden gems.
🏃 Great North Run (7 September, Newcastle to South Shields)
The world’s biggest half marathon – watch on TV or cheer on the day if you’re in the North East.
📚 British Science Festival (10–14 September, Liverpool)
Hands-on shows, talks and family activities celebrating science and discovery.
🎨 London Design Festival (13–21 September, London)
Exhibitions and installations celebrating innovation and creativity in design.
👗 London Fashion Week (18–22 September, London)
Catch the buzz of fashion showcases – or create your own “runway” dress-up game at home.
🍎 York Food & Drink Festival (19–28 September, York)
One of the biggest UK food festivals, with tastings, workshops and cookery demos.
📚 Literary Festivals (throughout September, UK)
From Henley to Wigtown, September is prime time for book festivals – check your nearest one for children’s author events.
🌿 Local Harvest & Food Festivals (UK-wide)
Look out for county shows, apple days and harvest festivals at local churches, farms and gardens – great for sampling seasonal produce.
🧺 Things to Try This September
- Press autumn leaves to start a seasonal scrapbook.
- Make apple crisps or pies with local fruit.
- Host a family film night with autumn snacks.
- Go on a conker or acorn hunt.
- Try stargazing on a clear night and spot early autumn constellations.
- Organise a no-tech evening with board games and candles.
- Visit a pick-your-own farm for apples or pumpkins.
- Plant bulbs ready for spring.
- Write a family gratitude list as the new season begins.
🎨 Crafts to Match the Month
- 🍯 Apple Print Cards or Bags– perfect for Rosh Hashanah.
- 🍂 Leaf Lanterns – cosy for autumn nights.
- 🌸 Flower Rangoli – a colourful nod to Onam.
- 🕊️ Peace Doves – cut from paper for International Peace Day.
- 💓 Heart Collage – tie in with World Heart Day.
September doesn’t have to be packed to be meaningful. Whether you do one activity or many, let this Could Do List offer gentle inspiration for sunny days, rainy afternoons, and everything in between.
👇 Don’t forget to download your free printable tick list below and keep it on the fridge or in your planner.
