Ease into FallLabor Day is only the unofficial end to summer. The beach vacation is over and the kids are back in school, but you can still take advantage of the beautiful evenings and weekends. There are a few ways to ease into fall without leaving all of summer behind at once.

Plan to continue spending time outside on the deck or patio. When the sun goes down, a heating lamp or fire pit work well for staying warm on chillier nights. Cozy throw blankets are a comfortable choice, too.

For sports fans, this is the time of year when baseball and football seasons collide. You can watch a Red Sox game one day and cheer on the Patriots the next. You could even host a game-day party in your home. Be sure to visit our prepared foods department for all the snacks and appetizers you may want to serve. Why fry your wings when you can grill them and get some outdoor time before kickoff? Check out this simple guide to grilling chicken wings.

Days sunning at the beach and lake are traded in for trips to the apple orchard and mountain hikes. When the foliage starts to pop, you’ll be glad you took the drive to enjoy the New England outdoors. Cape Cod is extra beautiful when the traffic quiets down as visitors head back to school and work. Take a day trip or overnight adventure to walk the beaches and do some shopping in the local shops. There are also fall fairs and festivals, like the ones at Smolak Farms. Check out their calendar of events!

Now is a great time to move from summer to autumn fruits and veggies in your recipes. If you’re looking for some culinary inspiration to get into the spirit of the new season, try some of these delicious dinners we love. How about a wine-marinated pot roast? Let us help you choose just the right cut of beef which, along with a bold red wine sauce highlighting sweet root vegetables, mushrooms and onion. For something sweet, try a spiced pear and cranberry cobbler. Whatever is on your fall menu, remember to check out the fresh marinades and dry rubs we offer.

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