Fall doesn't officially start until September 22nd, but in Texas, the season is always marked by the first time you can leave the backdoor open without dying of heat exhaustion. And judging by that metric, fall has blissfully begun.

There are two fall themed festivals happening this coming weekend that the whole family can enjoy.

46th Annual Fall Arts & Craft Festival

The Garden and Arts Center is hosting its 46th Annual Fall Arts & Craft Festival. The festival runs from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturday, September 10, 2016. Admission is free.

Located at 44th and University on beautiful Clapp Park, the Garden and Arts Center has been an invaluable cultural resource for Lubbockites since 1960.

The Fall Festival reflects this heritage with homespun and beautiful crafts like quilts and woodworking, but also has something for anyone. A couple of years ago, I spent all my money at a fan art booth, so there are modern things, too.

This is a great opportunity to get early Christmas shopping done, or you can visit the Lubbock Master Gardeners for bulbs to plant in January. I'm very passionate about supporting local and regional artists and artisans and honestly, there is no more thoughtful gift to give someone, because instead of a 'thing,' you're giving them an heirloom.

There's also a diverse live music selection throughout the day and my very favorite thing in the world: food trucks.

Apple Butter Festival

This weekend is also Apple County Orchards Apple Butter Festival, which happens Sept. 10 & 11 from 10 a.m. -  5 p.m. on both days.

This is always a charming way to spend a few hours. My favorite thing is to pick and eat a fresh apple right off the tree.

We will have Apple picking, hay rides, bounce house, live music by local artist, crafts for kids provided by Art & Company, petting zoo, Snow White, cow train, vendors, apples pies w/Sheridan's ice cream and more new activities for this year's festival!

Admission is $6 and a BBQ plate is an additional $6. Apple County Orchards is located near Idalou at 12206 E Hwy 62. It's actually not very far from North Lubbock. Their local honey is worth the drive alone.

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