Dear readers,

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Okay, I know what you’re thinking – I’m a bit early. But, for me, autumn truly is the most wonderful time of the year. You know that excited feeling the Christmas holiday brings? Well, that’s how I feel when fall finally rolls around.

Nothing can compare to the perfect temperatures and soft breezes of an autumn afternoon. Summers are sometimes too hot and humid, the springtime is unpredictable, and the winter is way too cold. But autumn brings the perfect mix of warm days followed by chilly nights. The fall weather could not be more perfect.

We get to cozy-up in our favorite sweatshirts with no need for big coats, mittens, and furry hats. There’s nothing I love more than a cardigan with sleeves that are too long paired with a scarf to keep me warm against the crisp chill in the air. Speaking of scarves, turn to Hot Ticket for some stylish cool wraps you can get right here in the Lehigh Valley.

Also, as the temperature starts to recede, leaves shift from green to brilliant orange, red and yellow. To set your eyes on the beauty of the Lehigh Valley, take a hike on South Mountain. For stellar sights and leisurely activities from walking to mountain biking to bouldering, check out pride of place for all that South Mountain has to offer. And, while you’re at it, don’t forget to snap some pictures and submit them to Snapshot.

If fright nights are your thing – I prefer pumpkin patches and apple picking – turn to page 30 to find out where you can explore some local haunts. The Lehigh Valley is rich with spooky stops and scary spots.

This issue of Marketplace is full of great ideas and ways to warm up when the weather gets cool. So start reading. And after you do, get outside and take advantage of the crisp weather and beautiful foliage.

Happy fall,

Amy Hines, Editor