Falling in Love with Bethel, All Over Again

There’s something about Bethel in the fall that makes me fall in love with our little town all over again.

Perhaps it’s the crisp morning air, the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that transform our trees, or the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot at Huntington State Park. Maybe it’s the pumpkins that magically appear outside Hollandia and Caraluzzi’s and on front porches throughout town, the vibrant mums like fireworks decorating our gardens, or the way the late afternoon sunlight blankets its golden glow over just about everything.

Whatever it is, fall in Bethel is something heartwarmingly special.

One of my favorite autumn traditions is a visit to Blue Jay Orchards. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked apple cider donuts, the excitement of choosing just the right pumpkin, or picking fresh, crisp Bethel apples. It’s a place where generations of families have made memories and where even those of us who have long since stopped being children or raising them can feel like kids again.

I love walking along Greenwood Avenue and Main Street, admiring the stately historic homes and popping into our locally owned shops. Each one has its own personality, and so many have been part of our community for years.

The Toy Room holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I bought many of my two sons’ favorite toys when they were little. Owner Kim Ramsey is an expert buyer who carefully selects age-appropriate toys. All you have to do is tell her the age and interests of the child you’re shopping for, and she’ll make suggestions and have your gift wrapped in no time. It doesn’t get much easier than that!

Alice Hutchinson, owner of Byrd’s Books, has created a beloved independent bookstore filled with a wonderful selection of books, cards, gifts, and workshops for everyone. I love having an independent bookstore right here in town.

Then there’s The Gift Cottage, owned by Joan Crybass and her children, Bob and Teri. It’s a beautiful gift shop filled with lovely gift items, including delicious chocolates from Hauser Chocolates. Whenever I walk through the door, I’m greeted with a smile and helpful suggestions for finding just the right gift. Of course, I usually find something for myself, too!

Patricia’s Presents, owned by Patricia Polk, is a fabulous, funky Bethel treasure chest filled with clothing, jewelry, and unique, colorful, one-of-a-kind finds, all specially curated by Patricia. I love going in to see what I didn’t see the last time! It’s such a fun store to explore and shop for special gifts.

Morton’s Jewelers, owned by Kevin Morton, offers beautiful handmade jewelry along with excellent jewelry and watch repair services. There’s something reassuring about knowing you can bring a treasured piece of jewelry to someone local who takes pride in his work.

One of the newest additions to downtown is Sweet Paperie, owned by Rob and Melissa Herzog and their partner, Alyssa Sferrazza. Step inside their cozy shop and you’ll discover handcrafted items from local artists and jewelers, carefully selected food and homeware gifts, and adorable baby clothes. It’s another wonderful reason to shop locally.

What I love most about these businesses isn’t just what they sell. It’s the people behind them. There’s something comforting about living in a town where you can walk into a shop, restaurant, or coffee shop and chat with the owners, many of whom have become friends. Or run into someone you haven’t seen in months and pick up right where you left off.

Those little moments are part of what makes Bethel feel like home. Of course I have to mention how adorable our annual Trick or Treat Street tradition is each year.   Sponsored by the Bethel's Chamber of Commerce, this year’s festivities take place on Saturday, October 31, from 1–3 PM in downtown Bethel. Greenwood Avenue comes alive with little ghosts, goblins, princesses, superheroes, and all sorts of creative costumes as families stroll through town collecting treats from local businesses and vendors along Greenwood Avenue and at the Municipal Center.

This year, there’s even more fun with a costume contest and pumpkin carving contest! It’s one of those wonderful small-town traditions that brings families, neighbors, and local businesses together.

Fall also brings wonderful energy to Bethel’s arts community. Bethel Arts’ Arts in View openings at the Gallery at La Zingara offer an opportunity to discover the work of talented local artists, enjoy an evening surrounded by creativity, and connect with friends and neighbors. I love seeing people gather to appreciate art, share ideas, and support the creative spirit that thrives in our town.

And it’s not just visual art! Bethel Arts also celebrates our talented local musicians. On Friday, November 6th, from 7–9 p.m., Bethel Arts will host a musical celebration at Greenwood Features, featuring Isabelle Rose & Friends. Tickets are $25 and available on Eventbrite here. Another wonderful opportunity to come together, enjoy live music, and support the arts right here in Bethel!

People gather to appreciate art, share ideas, and support the creative spirit that thrives in our town.
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And, of course, there’s poetry!

As Bethel’s Poet Laureate, one of my greatest joys is watching our poetry community grow. I host a First Tuesday of each month Poetry/Storytelling gathering with a featured poet followed by an Open Mic at Molten Java from 6:30pm to 8pm. This monthly event brings together seasoned poets, first-time readers, and people who are there just to listen. There’s laughter, sometimes tears, and always a wonderful sense of connection.

There’s something especially lovely about gathering on a chilly autumn evening, sharing poems and stories, and drinking delicious warm beverages.

Our Third Tuesday Poetry and Storytelling Writing Workshops offer another opportunity to explore our creativity. You don’t need to consider yourself a writer to participate. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to put pen to paper.

Another favorite fall activity of mine is taking a drive along our winding back roads to see the foliage. The perfect sweater-weather temps are lovely for a walk in the woods for some forest bathing amongst the soundtrack of rustling leaves, the calls of migrating birds, and the occasional squirrel scurrying about, preparing for the colder months ahead.

As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to fall, I’m reminded that nothing stays the same. That sometimes, there can be beauty in transition. The brilliant colors we admire today will soon cover the ground, and before long, winter will arrive. There’s a certain sweetness in knowing that autumn’s beauty is temporary. Maybe that’s why I love it so much and do my best to be present to all of it.

But while the leaves may come and go, what makes Bethel special remains.

It’s the people. The friendships. The familiar faces. The local businesses that welcome us. The artists, musicians, poets, volunteers, and neighbors who give so much of themselves to make this town a wonderful place to live.  It's the leaders and government who run this town. Our Police and Fire Departments who help keep us safe. It's not easy, especially during these times, and I appreciate all they do to help Bethel thrive.

So, this fall, I encourage you to get out and enjoy our town! Visit Blue Jay Orchards. Attend an art opening. Come to a poetry open mic, even if you’ve never been to one before. Support a local business. Shop local!  Take a walk through town. Strike up a conversation with someone you don’t know.

And don’t forget to look up. The trees are putting on quite a show. The sunsets and moon rises have been spectacular these past few weeks.

I don’t know about you, but I plan to enjoy every colorful moment as best I can.

Because there’s something about Bethel in the fall that makes me even more grateful to call this little town home.

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