Fall is in the air-- can you feel it? We can, and we’re more than ready for pumpkin patches, apple cider, and the moment when the leaves change to vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds.

Fall is a magical season meant to be shared with friends and family. But with groups involved, transportation can get a bit tricky as you try to coordinate times, stay organized, and figure out the most reliable transportation method for short- and long-distance trips. If you’re planning a trip to Sarasota, or you’re looking for the perfect thing to do this weekend, there’s more to the city than just the beach.

We’ve compiled the best fall activities to share with your favorite group of people to help you plan the most unforgettable season yet. Whether you’re coming from a nearby city like Orlando or Tampa, or you live right down the road, get ready Fall 2018-- it’s your time to shine!

Find the Perfect Pumpkin

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of fall? A spooky (or silly) carved Jack O’ Lantern smiling back at you! Throughout the month of October, the Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Festival offers visitors a completely free pumpkin-filled day every Saturday and Sunday. Pick out your favorite pumpkin, enjoy live music, and savor fall with homemade pumpkin pie, pumpkin ice cream, and barbecue.

Not sure how you and your group will get there? Falcon Charter Bus is Florida’s top charter bus rental service, providing group travel solutions for trips of all kinds. With services all across Florida, they know how to make sure you and your group enjoy your trip completely stress-free!

Watch the Beach Come to Life

While you’re visiting the white, sandy beaches of Sarasota, you can have the chance to watch the sand transform into lifelike sculptures at the Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival. From November 9th to November 12, 2018, artists from around the world will gather to bring their best sand-sculpting abilities and create unprecedented masterpieces. Whether you’re competing or just watching, this is one major fall event you don’t want to miss. With a full bar, delicious food, and live entertainment, you’ll learn a whole new side of building a sandcastle.

Dress Up in Medieval Costumes

Ladies and knights, it’s that time of year again. Starting November 3, 2018, the Sarasota Medieval Fair brings their magic for just 3 weekends. Enjoy the cooler weather by traveling back to the 11th century, meeting royalty, feasting, and cheering on your favorite knight at the joust. With over 100 shops, food booths, rides, and games, you’ll never run out of things to do. Plus, bring your best medieval costume for your chance to win the costume contest and win a prize even a king would be envious of.

Basking in medieval fun is even better with a group, especially when you’re planning on participating in the Pub Crawl. When you work with reliable charter bus companies like National Charter Bus, you can spend less time worrying about the transportation and parking while you enjoy the finest ale and mead in the land. You’ll have dedicated transportation to give you and your friends a safe ride. That’s something to huzzah about!

Enter a World of Imagination
Are you an artist or just looking for something different to admire? Between November 8-12, 2018, you can witness artists work their magic as they transform pavement to a complete masterpiece at the Sarasota Chalk Festival. If you’re an artist yourself, you’ll have the chance to show your skills and gain exposure for your passion.

What’s the catch? Each year focuses on a theme that artists have to focus on. This year’s theme is “Garden of Wonder” to pay tribute to to the marvels of the natural world and human imagination, so prepare your best piece of work or get ready for a day full of live music, fun  activities, and delicious food!

Have Some Spooky Family Fun
What kid doesn’t love the spirit of Halloween (and all the free candy?) If you’re traveling with a group of children, take them out for the Spooktacular at Selby Gardens on October 28. This wholesome event features all your classic Halloween activities, from pumpkin decorating and planting seeds to a spooky mad scientist experiment center. Children can dress in their favorite costume with their trick-or-treat bags in hand, giving them the chance to start Halloween early. Enjoy delicious food and ice cream treats as you get pumped for one of the best times of the year!

Need help planning your group trip? Luckily, Florida is home to some of the best charter bus companies out there. They’ll handle the entire bus rental process to give you more time to focus on planning the best trip yet!