I live by Anne Shirley’s oft-quoted words: “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” Growing up in New England, there was no better place to understand that truth. The crisp air, the blaze of gold and amber leaves, weekends spent hiking or baking something warm and comforting.
But since moving to milder horizons, a new month has quietly taken October’s place in my heart. November feels different: less spectacle, more soul. It’s when the pace naturally slows, the days grow softer, and home becomes the center of everything. This is the month to light a candle before dinner, to savor the sound of something simmering on the stove, and to fill your calendar with rituals that bring you back to yourself.
25 Things to Do in November
Whether you’re leaning into gratitude, preparing for the holidays, or simply craving a little calm, here are 25 things to do in November—each one designed to make this your coziest month yet.
Rituals for Slowing Down
There’s a rhythm to this month that invites us to retreat and recalibrate. These small rituals help you embrace the shift, finding comfort in slow routines and simple pleasures.
- Make a monthly Pinterest board. Curl up with a cup of tea and set a seasonal mood board—recipes to try, outfits to repeat, projects to start. Let inspiration meet intention.
- Pop something cozy in the oven. Baking is practically a November love language. Try these cozy fall recipes, from pumpkin chocolate chip cookies to Camille’s favorite pumpkin loaf topped with airy cream cheese frosting.
- Prep for daylight savings. As the days shorten, create rituals that keep your energy steady: morning walks, soft lighting, and moments to pause. If the darker days hit hard, here are some tips for managing seasonal affective disorder.
- Learn a new craft. Knitting, ceramics, pie design—anything that invites your hands to slow down while your mind unwinds.
- Order your holiday cards early. Get ahead of the rush so the act of writing them still feels joyful.
- DIY your holiday décor. From minimalist clay ornaments to Scandinavian-inspired toppers, simple handmade details bring warmth to your space.
- Add a few festive touches. Think candlelight, greenery, or a fresh wreath by the door—small details that quietly shift the season’s mood.
- Plan your coziest weekend. Slow mornings, comfort shows, and a little fall home organization are the recipe for November bliss.
- Perfect your present wrapping. Our guide to wrapping the perfect gift turns the task into an art form.
Seasonal Ways to Feel Grounded
At its heart, November is an invitation to reconnect—to gratitude, to gathering, to the grounding rituals that remind us what matters. These simple ideas help you move through the month with a little more warmth.
- Host a football Sunday. Big pot of chili, soft blanket, no pressure—just easy connection.
- Practice simple living. Make your own dried herbs, natural cleaners, or infused oils—small, satisfying projects that bring calm to your space.
- Write gratitude cards. Send them to the people who bring you joy.
- Make a simmer pot. Fill your kitchen with the scent of sliced apples, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Prep for holiday guests. Stock cozy blankets, snacks, and soft lighting. Our guest room guide covers the rest.
- Reconnect with your gratitude practice. Don’t save it for Thanksgiving! These gratitude journal prompts are a great place to start.
- Watch nostalgic fall movies. The ones that feel like a hug. Check out our definitive list of the best cozy fall day films.
- Create a cycle-syncing planner. Align your energy, meals, and routines with your natural rhythm.
Creative Projects and Reflections for the Month
When the world outside quiets, creativity and connection fill the space. November’s slower pace is the perfect time to cook, craft, and gather without rush.
- Make pasta from scratch. Try Camille’s sweet potato gnocchi—it’s as comforting as it sounds.
- Set a beautiful Thanksgiving table. Layer linens, candles, and foraged branches. Our Thanksgiving planning guide walks you through the details.
- Read something seasonal. Browse our fall reading list for novels that pair perfectly with a cup of tea.
- Host Friendsgiving. Potluck-style, low-pressure, and full of laughter. A gathering that feels as good as it tastes. Steal these Friendsgiving recipe ideas for inspo.
- Host a girls’ night in. A cozy dinner, a shared playlist, maybe a simple craft—proof that connection doesn’t require occasion.
- Curate the perfect charcuterie board. Layer seasonal fruits, good cheese, and rustic crackers—effortless entertaining at its best.
- Celebrate Thanksgiving. Whether with family, friends, or solo, create your own version of gratitude and grace.
- Shop small this season. Seek out local makers and boutiques. Because gifts chosen with intention have a way of becoming the most loved.
A Month Made for Meaning
November reminds us that slowing down is not a step back—it’s a return to balance. Between the glow of candlelight and the hum of the oven, we find room to embrace the small moments that make a life feel full.
This month, let comfort and creativity lead the way. Savor what’s simple. Celebrate what’s near. And remember: cozy isn’t just a season—it’s a state of mind.
This post was last updated on November 1, 2025, to include new insights.
