This month, the temperature is dropping and the leaves are changing into beautiful jewel hues of red, orange and brown. The days may be getting shorter, but that’s no reason to stay indoors and mope. After all, there are plenty of fun events happening around the country in October. The end of the month also marks the end of British Summer Time, so remember to set your clocks back an hour to enjoy another hour of sleep.

Throughout October – Devon Celebration of Food, Devon
This month-long food festival aims to celebrate and showcase the best of the county’s menus. Events include a ‘food safari’ aimed at getting people to visit farms, apple and pumpkin picking events and a Ready, Steady, Cook!-style competition. The festival has also organised an ‘Eat Out for £10’ promotion with top restaurants across the county, so customers can treat themselves to a great meal.

4th October – Diwali on the Square, London
The Hindu festival of lights brightens up Trafalgar Square on the first Sunday of October.
A host of exciting bands are lined up to perform, and you can expect anything from Bollywood songs to urban street dance. The fountain in the square will be lit up with beautifully crafted floating lanterns. The evening will end with a short session of chanting and devotional music.

11th October – World Conker Championships, Northamptonshire
Armed with only a nut and a bit of string, competitors from all over descend on a little corner of Northamptonshire to battle for supremacy today. The competition started in 1965 in Aston village green, and has since become so popular that this year’s event has been moved to a larger venue in order to accommodate everyone. Although it may seem like a childish game, entrants in the competition will have to adhere to a strict set of rules, and there are even two stewards and an umpire involved in deciding the winner. The Championships also aims to raise money for various charities.

31st October – Halloween, across the UK
This holiday is quickly gaining popularity around the UK, and is always a favourite with children. It’s a chance to relieve your childhood and dress up as scary creatures, and indulge in tons of candy. If you’re more health-conscious, then try bobbing for apples or carving a pumpkin Jack-o’-lantern instead. Don’t forget to keep a large bowl of sweets handy for trick or treating children, least you find the exterior of your house covered with miles of toilet paper.