This month, I’ve felt like all the news and social media I’ve consumed has taken a toll on me—and I’m probably not the only Michigander who feels that way.

Research shows how the world’s constant onslaught of news and social media negatively impacts our overall well-being, with the clearest hits being to our anxiety and depression levels.

As someone who works in news, I sometimes feel guilty about that. Which is why today, I want to do something different from the usual, taking inspiration from the change of seasons in our beautiful state.

The ‘Gander team came together to reflect on what fall means to us and what we love about it. Along the way, we’re sharing our favorite fall stories (including some spooky ones).

Just as fall transforms our surroundings, this newsletter can serve as a reminder to pause and appreciate what matters most.

Consider this your cue to pause, breathe, and step into The ’Gander’s love letter to fall.

Across the country, the future of local news is uncertain. But here at The ’Gander, we’re staying focused—on you.

Our goal for our fall fundraising campaign is to raise $3,200 by the end of the day to keep this kind of coverage strong in Michigan.

Thank you for your support, neighbor.

Lucas Henkel’s family takes “pumpkin season” to a whole new level. (Lucas Henkel/The ’Gander)

By Lucas Henkel, multimedia reporter

My wife and I started a tradition a few years back, and it has become one of my favorite fall activities.

The basic premise is that we carve pumpkins, put them on our heads, and take photos of ourselves. It started in 2022, shortly after we got married, with one of my favorite local Michigan photographers. We drove out to a park in Grand Rapids and had so much fun watching people react to seeing us in our wedding outfits and hand-carved pumpkin heads.

Over the years, we’ve continued the tradition and have started to include our friends in on the fun. We’re planning another photoshoot in Traverse City this year, and I’m really excited about it.

A Michigan fall must for Loreal Salter: cider and donuts at Franklin Cider Mill. (Loreal Salter/The ’Gander)

By Loreal Salter, social media manager

For me, fall isn’t complete without a trip to Franklin Cider Mill. Unlike other cider mills with apple picking and hayrides, Franklin keeps it simple, but makes up for it with the best cider and donuts in Michigan. You can grab them outside with a view of the changing leaves and the lake, or inside while watching the cider being pressed and packaged.

As a kid, I loved standing inside to see the process, but now I prefer being outdoors if the weather permits. After grabbing my treats, I head to the water to feed the ducks—a small tradition that makes my fall feel complete.

Fall foliage on the Pesheke River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. (Michigan Department of Natural Resources)

By Kyle Kaminski, political correspondent

Fall has always been my favorite season in Michigan. To me, there’s nothing better than pulling on a hoodie, grabbing some cider and donuts, and heading out for a fall color tour when the leaves are at their brightest.

Bonfires with friends, football on the weekends, and long walks through the crisp autumn air are the little rituals that make this time of year feel special.

At the same time, fall is often when my job as a political correspondent gets the busiest. Maybe that’s why I savor the cider runs and color tours so much. They’re a way to breathe and to reset before diving back into the endless debates over schools, roads, and everything in between.

A fall round of disc golf turns into family fun for Karel Vega and his daughter. (Karel Vega/The ’Gander)

By Karel Vega, your newsletter editor

If you’ve never heard of disc golf, it’s the same concept as regular golf: get the object from point A to point B in the least amount of strokes possible. Only, instead of whacking a ball with a club, you’re throwing a disc—essentially, a specialized frisbee. The sport has been around since the ’60s, but exploded in popularity during the pandemic, which is when I caught on.

There are several ways that, in my opinion, disc golf excels over its inspiration: it’s incredibly accessible regardless of skill level, there’s a low cost of entry, courses are plentiful in Michigan (and usually free to play at), and you can play during any season (yes, even in deep snow, with creative modifications). My favorite time of the year to play is during the fall.

Nothing beats the feeling of walking through a course on a crisp autumn morning, colors exploding around you, your breath hanging in the air, as you take a moment to gather all your frustrations and then throw them as far as you can, along with that disc.

If my description has piqued your curiosity, I highly recommend you give it a chance this fall. Disc golf has created some of the best memories of my life.

See you on the course.

Looking for ways to soak up every shade of Michigan fall? From apple orchards and haunted legends to Oktoberfest celebrations and vineyard views, we’ve rounded up stories to help you make the most of the season. 🍁

America’s No. 1 destination for fall colors is right here in Michigan

Your 2025 guide to apple picking in Michigan

Ghosts in the Great Lakes: 10 spooky tales about Michigan

Oktoberfest, Michigan-style: 11 must-visit festivals and events

The best fall foliage campsites in Michigan

8 Michigan wineries to visit this fall

11 can’t-miss fall festivals in Michigan

Do you want to support The ’Gander’s mission while showcasing your products or services to an engaged audience of 350,000+ subscribers?

Email advertise@couriernewsroom.com for more information.

Thanks for reading. This special edition newsletter was written by Karel Vega and edited by Paula Solis.

The ’Gander is free for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.