OK, I’ve been talking fall, and now it’s officially here. So here is the plan. Try these:

Packers take on East

1. It came down to the wire last year, and Mankato East and Austin High School football teams will clash again. Last year, the Packers lost a heartbreaker during their homecoming night, and they’re still hungry for a win. For those willing to take the trek, the game starts at 7 p.m. Friday in Mankato.

Farmer John’s

2. Nothing screams fall like a pumpkin patch, like Farmer John’s pumpkin patch at 90537 273rd St., northwest of Austin. The pumpkin patch opens Saturday and offers lots activity for kids and families. Admission is free. On Sunday, Sept. 30, the pumpkin patch will also offer free horse-drawn wagon rides for four Sundays in a row.

Fairly busy at the fairgrounds

3. It’s a one-stop-shop at the Mower County Fairgrounds, 700 12th St. SW, this Saturday. Here we go: The day kicks off at 7 a.m. with the Operation Vintage Pride snowmobile event. There will be races, vintage sleds, a swap meet, and proceeds buy care packages for troops.

At 9 a.m., the North Central Highland Regional Cattle Show kicks off with plenty of hooves in the livestock barns. These are no normal cattle either. Hint: bagpipes and shaggy coats.

Then, at 11 a.m., the Mower County Historical Society’s fall harvest celebration starts. The celebration features old-time machinery and historical dress, an educational experience for all ages.

Great Plains Country Show

4. If that’s not enough outdoor, country action, head to the Paramount Theatre, 125 Fourth Ave. NE, at 7:30 p.m Saturday. It’s the Great Plains Country Show, featuring Adam Wollenburg and Derik Schuacher. Tickets in advance are $12 or $5 for students, $3 more at the door.

Other events

Don’t forget, author and Lyle native Randy Krulish will be at the Austin Public Library from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday to sign copies of his new book, “Walk.” Among other events, watch out for fall church dinners. They’re comin’ in hot.

Look to Reporter Matt Peterson’s column every Friday for more about upcoming events in Austin. For even more, check out the calendar on Page 4 every day in the print edition and the AustinDailyHerald.com homepage.