12 Cozy Ideas for Fall Gatherings in Colorado

Posted on 23 Oct 2025

Fall at Reunion is magical. The slower pace, the golden sunsets, and the scent of something delicious simmering throughout the neighborhood — it all sets the scene for gathering with family and friends. If you want to throw a full-on fall bash or are just looking for creative excuses to get everyone together, we’ve collected twelve fun, easy, and heartwarming ways to celebrate the season — Reunion-style.

1. Backyard Movie Night & Popcorn Bar

Take advantage of those mild Colorado evenings before winter sets in. Set up a backyard projector, spread out some comfy blankets and pillows, and queue up your favorite fall flicks (Hocus Pocus, anyone?). Level-up with a delicious popcorn bar with seasonings like cinnamon sugar, cheddar dust, garlic powder, or caramel drizzle. It’s low-effort, super fun, and enjoyable for all ages.

2. Pumpkin Painting Night

Carving is classic, but painting pumpkins is just as festive, and way less messy! Try metallics for a modern twist or let the kids go wild with stickers, stencils, and washable paints. Set up your crafting stations outside with cider and tea, and play a fall playlist in the background for a memorable afternoon that’s more about laughter than cleanup.

3. Build the Ultimate Blanket Fort

When the evenings turn chilly, grab every pillow and blanket in sight and build a mega fort in your living room. With the addition of string lights, flashlights, yummy snacks, and a good book or interactive games, it makes for a perfect family night or sleepover party.

4. Coffee & Cocoa Tasting Party

For a grown-up twist, host an inclusive tasting night featuring seasonal sips. Ask guests to bring their favorite coffee roast or cocoa blend to share, then set up a topping bar with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and crushed peppermint.

And for an extra local touch, offer specialty drinks and treats from Reunion Coffee House — because nothing beats supporting your own neighborhood café.

5. Harvest Potluck Dinner

Few things bring people together like food. Invite neighbors to a harvest-themed potluck where everyone brings a dish that celebrates the season — roasted veggies, apple crisps, pumpkin pasta, or hearty stews.

If you’re short on time or ideas, your slow cooker can be your best friend. You’ll find inspiration in our blog post, “Slow Cooker Recipes Perfect for Fall in Commerce City,” which includes easy comfort food ideas that taste like home. Add a few plaid runners and mini pumpkins for effortless table charm.

 6. Costume Swap Party & Runway Show

Keep the Halloween spirit alive with a playful post-holiday costume swap! Have friends and neighbors bring their leftover wigs, accessories, and costume pieces, then mix and match for an evening of laughter and creativity. Turn it into a friendly fashion challenge — give everyone five minutes to craft their most outrageous “new character,” then strut their stuff on a DIY runway for prizes like “Most Dramatic,” “Best Mash-Up,” or “Unexpectedly Stylish.”

It’s a sustainable and hilarious way to reuse costumes, make new memories, and keep the fall festivities going at Reunion — all without spending a dime.

7. DIY Candle & Potpourri Night

Invite your guests for a real treat of creating DIY candles and potpourri. Gather oranges, lemons, cloves, and cinnamon sticks for stovetop potpourri, or pour soy wax into mason jars with a wick, adding essential oil notes like cinnamon, apple, vanilla, and cedar. It’s part therapy, part home spa, and your house will smell amazing for weeks. Plus, they make thoughtful, handmade gifts.

8. Storytelling & S’mores Night

Reunion’s quiet and serene atmosphere creates the best backdrop for a firepit gathering. Toast marshmallows, make s’mores, share ghost stories, or swap family tales as the stars come out. Sometimes it’s the simple but thoughtful evenings that everyone remembers.

9. Cozy Fall Picnic

Bundle up and pack a thermos of soup, fresh bread, and a few blankets, and head to one of Reunion’s parks or lakes. Bring a camera — this is peak autumn aesthetic, and the fall light in Commerce City glows differently this time of year. Bonus points if your picnic ends with apple cider cheers.

10. Friendsgiving Baking Day

Gather your crew, crank up some music, and spend the morning baking desserts to share together. Mini pies, pumpkin cookies, and spiced loaves make for delightful gifts or treats for your household, and even better memories. Make sure to keep a separate “taste-test” tray because you’ll definitely need one for all involved.

11. Vinyl & Chili Night

Combine comfort food and good tunes for the ultimate low-key night in. Invite friends over to bring their favorite records. Make a big pot of chili and add a variety of toppings like jalapeños, onions, cheese, sour cream, and an array of crackers or dipping bread. While it simmers on the stove, enjoy a laid-back evening of good music and fantastic company. 

12. DIY Fall Photo Booth

Creating an inviting autumn-themed photo booth never goes out of fashion. All you need is a blanket backdrop secured in place, a selection of pumpkins, foliage, and some charming fall decorations. Elevate the fun and poses with a variety of props that reflect the season. This setup is inviting for capturing unforgettable moments with friends, family, and pets. 

Fall at Reunion: Where Every Season Feels Like Home

Whether you’re hosting friends, making DIY décor, or enjoying a walk by the lake, fall is always special at Reunion in Commerce City.

Grab your favorite sweater, pour yourself something warm, and start planning your next fall get-together. Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram to get featured on our stories — we love seeing and sharing how our Reunion neighbors celebrate the season.