Even though you're likely still soaking up rays, it's time to say hello to fall in the Sunshine State. Whether you're viewing art in the open air, sinking your teeth into freshly picked corn or hunting for the perfect pumpkin, Florida is the perfect backdrop for an October full of fun.

 

The ultimate celebration of the season,the 37^th annual Micanopy Fall Harvest Festival will be held October 29 and 30, 2011 in this small, scenic town located between Gainesville and Ocala. The town comes alive as artists and crafters from across the Southeast come together to display and sell their highest quality work. The changing leaves of the old oak trees lining the street and the historic shops and landmarks form a combination of art, architecture and natural beauty—a true feast for the eyes. Over the past 36 years, the show has evolved to become one of the premiere art festivals in the region. For more information, visit www.micanopyfallfestival.org.

 

To fill your home with the aromas of the season, visit Sarasota Candle Company. Every candle is handcrafted in the studio with a cotton or hemp wick and unique, signature blends of soy, food-grade paraffin, beeswax, palm and essential oil. Fall favorites include Cranberry Spice, McIntosh Apple, Warm Cinnamon, Northern Woods Balsam and Cinnamon Bun. Custom candle orders are accepted. The retail shop is located at a new location in downtown Sarasota, and the candles are also available at other locations including the Celebration Farmers Market and Sand Lake Farmers Market in Orlando, and the Saturday Farmers Market in Sarasota. For more information, visit www.sarasotacandle.com.

 

In Florida, nature’s fall bounty includes far more than just citrus fruit. Hunsader Farms,outside Bradenton,was established in 1967 when the Hunsader brothers migrated south from Wisconsin bringing their dream of vegetable farming. Their harvests grew, as did their facilities, events and staff. Today, Hunsader is home to a farmers market featuring produce picked daily. You can even roam their fields for pick-your-own fun. For almost 20 years, the farm has played host to an annual Pumpkin Festival, boasting attractions such as pumpkins and pumpkin games, farm-roasted sweet corn, pumpkin pie and homemade ice cream. If you need to work up an appetite first, enjoy a bounty of activities: Hayrides, pony rides, corn mazes, chainsaw sculpting, swamp buggy rides, craft shows, antique shows, musical entertainment, scarecrow displays, playgrounds and a petting zoo. The festival takes place October 15 and 16, 22 and 23, 29 and 30, 2011. Visit www.hunsaderfarms.com for more information.

Whatever fall represents to you, you'll find it all in Florida. Get out and enjoy the season in the coming weeks.