The Best Small Towns to Visit in September

Posted on August 31, 2025September 1, 2025 by gigis ramblings

When September rolls around, travel starts to shift. The summer crowds are gone, the weather cools down, and small towns across the U.S. come alive with fall festivals, farmers markets, and scenic beauty. If you’re looking for a getaway that feels more personal than a big city trip, visiting a small town in September is the perfect choice.

Why September is the Perfect Time for Small Town Travel

First of all, September sits in that sweet spot between summer and fall. Kids are back in school, which means less traffic at popular spots, and prices for lodging often drop. At the same time, many towns celebrate harvest season with festivals, live music, and outdoor events. Because of this, you get a local experience without the stress of heavy crowds.

Small Towns That Shine in September

1. Fredericksburg, Texas

Known for its German roots and Hill Country charm, Fredericksburg is beautiful in September. The weather is mild, and wineries are in full swing with harvest celebrations. Additionally, you can enjoy Oktoberfest-style events, small shops along Main Street, and plenty of homemade food that celebrates both German and Texan traditions.

2. Bar Harbor, Maine

On the other hand, if you’re looking for crisp air and early fall colors, Bar Harbor is a must-visit. Nestled right next to Acadia National Park, this small town offers stunning coastal views, whale-watching tours, and fresh seafood. By visiting in September, you avoid the heavy tourist season but still catch the beginning of the foliage season.

3. Stowe, Vermont

Similarly, Stowe is a postcard-perfect New England town that shines in September. The hiking trails are less crowded, local breweries host seasonal tastings, and the mountain scenery is breathtaking. Plus, the town’s farm-to-table dining scene is at its peak during harvest time.

4. Eureka Springs, Arkansas

For a blend of history and charm, Eureka Springs is a hidden gem. With its Victorian architecture, quirky shops, and scenic Ozark Mountains backdrop, the town feels magical in early fall. In September, you can also catch outdoor music festivals and art fairs that make it feel even more alive.

5. Leavenworth, Washington

Finally, if you love Bavarian-style fun, Leavenworth is the place to be. The September air is crisp, perfect for strolling through the themed streets. The town gears up for Oktoberfest celebrations, making it a lively yet cozy destination for travelers looking to combine culture, food, and stunning mountain views.

Tips for Planning Your September Small Town Getaway

When planning your trip, consider booking early since many small towns have limited accommodations. In addition, pack for changing weather, especially if you’re visiting mountain or coastal areas. Lastly, check local calendars for festivals and events—you may find that timing your visit with a harvest festival or music event makes the trip even more memorable.

Final Thoughts

In the end, September is one of the best months to explore small towns across the U.S. Whether you’re drawn to the wineries of Texas Hill Country, the fall colors of New England, or the charm of Bavarian-style streets in Washington, these destinations offer something unique. So, if you’re ready for a trip that feels both refreshing and unforgettable, make this September the month you discover a new favorite small town.

The History of Pumpkin Spice and Why It’s Everywhere

Posted on August 27, 2025August 28, 2025 by gigis ramblings

pumpkin spice latte with a pumpkin spice candle in the background

Pumpkin spice seems to pop up everywhere once fall rolls around. From lattes to candles, it’s become the unofficial flavor of autumn. But how did this blend of spices become such a cultural phenomenon? Let’s take a look at its history and why we can’t escape it each year.

Where Pumpkin Spice Began

Pumpkin spice isn’t new. In fact, the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves dates back centuries. These spices were once considered rare and valuable, imported from faraway places and used in holiday feasts. Early American colonists combined them with pumpkin, which was easy to grow, to create hearty pies and desserts. Over time, this flavor combination became strongly associated with autumn traditions.

Pumpkin Pie and Holiday Traditions

By the 1800s, pumpkin pie had cemented its place on American tables, especially during Thanksgiving. Cookbooks from that era often included recipes calling for a mix of the same warm spices we use today. Families began linking the flavors to celebration, comfort, and seasonal change. This strong association is part of why pumpkin spice feels nostalgic to so many people.

How Pumpkin Spice Became a Modern Trend

The real boom came in 2003 when Starbucks introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte. At the time, flavored coffee drinks were gaining popularity, but this one struck gold. Its limited availability created excitement and urgency, turning it into a fall tradition almost overnight. Other brands quickly noticed and began releasing pumpkin spice versions of their products, from cookies to cereals.

Why Pumpkin Spice Is Everywhere

Pumpkin spice has grown beyond food and drinks. Now you can find it in candles, air fresheners, and even beauty products. In fact, it is always one of our bestsellers all year round. Part of its success lies in marketing. Companies know that people crave seasonal exclusivity and nostalgia. Pumpkin spice checks both boxes. It taps into cozy fall feelings, family traditions, and the excitement of seasonal change. Plus, social media has helped amplify the craze, turning it into a cultural signal that autumn has officially arrived.

Is Pumpkin Spice Here to Stay?

Some folks roll their eyes at pumpkin spice, but its staying power is undeniable. Each year, the demand grows, and new products hit the shelves. As long as people associate the blend with warmth, comfort, and the start of the holiday season, pumpkin spice isn’t going anywhere.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin spice may have ancient roots, but its modern popularity is a mix of clever marketing and nostalgia. Whether you love it or avoid it, there’s no denying its influence. Each fall, pumpkin spice reminds us that cooler days, family gatherings, and holiday traditions are just around the corner.

Early Fall Bucket List Ideas for Families

Posted on August 23, 2025August 24, 2025 by gigis ramblings

When the summer heat finally eases and fall makes its first appearance, families often look for ways to enjoy the season. Early fall is the perfect time to spend more time outdoors, slow down, and create memories before the holiday rush begins. The best part? You don’t need a big budget or elaborate plans. These bucket list ideas are simple, realistic, and fun for the whole family.

Go on a Nature Walk

Early fall brings cooler temperatures and the first signs of changing leaves. A nature walk is an easy way to get outside without much planning. Local parks, trails, or even your neighborhood work just fine. Encourage kids to collect colorful leaves, acorns, or pinecones along the way. It’s free, simple, and gives everyone a chance to connect with nature.

Visit a Farmers Market

Farmers markets are lively in the fall with seasonal produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Take the family on a weekend morning and let everyone pick out something they’d like to try. Apples, pumpkins, and squash are usually in season, and many markets offer fresh cider. Supporting local farmers while spending time together makes this a win-win.

Try a Backyard Campout

Camping doesn’t have to involve packing the car and driving for hours. Pitch a tent in your backyard for a fun night under the stars. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy being “away from home” while still close to bathrooms and snacks. Kids love the adventure, and parents appreciate the convenience.

Have a Family Game Night

With evenings getting darker sooner, fall is a great time to bring out the board games or card decks. Pick a night when everyone is home, set out snacks, and let each family member choose a game. It’s affordable and creates plenty of laughs without the need for screens.

Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin patches are classic fall fun, but they don’t have to be expensive. Many offer free entry, and you only pay for what you pick. Let kids find their perfect pumpkin, then bring them home for carving or painting. Add some hot chocolate afterward and you’ve got a cozy fall memory.

Cook a Seasonal Meal Together

Early fall ingredients like apples, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash make for comforting meals. Choose a simple recipe that everyone can help with—like homemade apple crisp or roasted vegetables. Cooking together gives kids hands-on experience and helps them appreciate the effort behind a family meal.

Plan a Movie Marathon

Cooler evenings call for cozy blankets and good movies. Pick a theme—classic family favorites, fall-themed films, or even a series. Add popcorn and maybe some apple cider for the perfect night in. It’s low-cost entertainment that feels special when planned as a family event.

Explore a Local Festival or Fair

Many towns host small fall festivals or community fairs during September and October. These often include food trucks, live music, or simple games for kids. It’s a great way to support your community and get out of the house for a few hours without spending much money.

Take Family Photos Outdoors

You don’t need a professional photographer to capture memories. Use a smartphone and take advantage of the soft fall light. A park, backyard, or even your front porch can work as a backdrop. Early fall photos are a fun tradition and make for keepsakes you’ll treasure later.

Go Apple Picking

If you have an orchard nearby, apple picking is a must-do. Kids love running through the rows of trees and filling baskets. Once you’re home, bake a pie or make applesauce together. It’s an activity that extends into another family project in the kitchen.

End With a Gratitude List

Fall naturally brings a sense of reflection. Take one evening to sit down as a family and write a gratitude list. Each person can share one or two things they’re thankful for. It’s simple, meaningful, and a nice way to prepare for the holiday season ahead.

Making Early Fall Memorable

A family bucket list doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Early fall offers plenty of simple pleasures—from cooler walks outdoors to cozy nights inside. These activities are realistic, budget-friendly, and designed to bring families closer together. When you keep things simple, you’re more likely to actually do them—and that’s what makes the memories last.

How I Stay Grounded This Month

Posted on August 3, 2025August 3, 2025 by gigis ramblings

August always feels like the warm-up act before the main event. It’s not quite fall, but you can sense it coming—and for me, that brings a whole lot of excitement… and a little chaos if I’m not careful. Between gearing up for our annual vacation, preparing for a busy season in my business, and counting down to my favorite time of year, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush. That’s why I make a conscious effort to stay grounded all month long.

Antsy Energy and What I Do With It

I always get a little antsy in August. There’s a hum of anticipation in the air. Our vacation is right around the corner, and while I absolutely love getting away, prepping for it can be overwhelming. A week away from work and real life means I’ve got to plan ahead—not just packing, but making sure orders are done, blog posts are scheduled, and everything is squared away for when we’re gone.

To keep from spiraling, I’ve started turning that nervous energy into action. I make a running list of everything I need to handle before vacation—personal and business. Then, I break it down week by week so it’s not all sitting on my shoulders at once. It’s not a fancy system, just a notebook and a highlighter, but it works like a charm.

Creating Space to Breathe

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that staying grounded doesn’t mean you have to slow everything down—it just means you need to give yourself space to breathe. I build little pockets of calm into my day, especially in August when things start to feel stacked.

Some mornings, I’ll light one of my own wax melts, put on some music, and just sit for a few minutes before I dive into the day. It sounds small, but it reminds me why I do what I do—and it makes everything feel a little less rushed.

I also get outside as often as I can. Even if it’s just a walk around the block or sitting on the back porch with a cold drink, being in the fresh air always recenters me.

Grounding Myself Through Routine

Because this month gets so hectic, I stick to a strong daily routine. I wake up at 5 a.m., pack my husband’s lunch, and take him to work. That’s been our rhythm for the last year and keeping that going helps me feel balanced no matter what else is happening. After that, I get started on work early, which leaves a little breathing room later in the day for whatever August decides to throw at me.

I also go to bed earlier in August than I do in other months. I know what’s ahead—September is full of momentum, then the holidays roll in hard and fast. Rest now means energy later.

Why This Month Matters So Much

August isn’t just about getting ready for vacation. It also kicks off one of the most meaningful stretches of the year for me. My birthday and our anniversary both land in this season, and every year, I take a little time to reflect on what I’m grateful for. That helps ground me in a big way.

And then there’s fall. Y’all know how much I love it. The cooler weather, the decorations, the food, the family time—everything. August is the doorway to all of that. When I get overwhelmed, I remind myself that I’m walking toward my favorite time of the year. That little reminder is sometimes all I need to calm my nerves and stay focused on the moment.

Staying Present, Even When I’m Planning Ahead

It’s tempting to live in the future when you’ve got big plans coming up. But I’ve learned the hard way that if I don’t slow down and stay present, I miss the sweet little things happening right now. The summer sunsets, the slow Saturdays, the final pool days—they all matter, too.

So I keep myself grounded by soaking up these last bits of summer even as I prepare for what’s ahead. I savor the messy middle. I stay in the moment. And I remind myself: there’s no need to rush what’s coming. It’ll get here soon enough.

Summer Scent Swap: My Favorite July Wax Melt Scents

Posted on July 11, 2025July 13, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Alright, y’all… I’ll admit it—I’m running a little behind getting this post out. It’s already mid-July, and folks are already whispering about pumpkin spice and flannel. But let’s hit pause for just a minute. Because before we dive into fall, I’ve still got some seriously swoon-worthy summer scents filling up my wax melt warmers.

If you’re in the mood to freshen up your summer scent game before the seasons shift, let me share a few of my absolute July favorites that are perfect for those long, hot days and slow, sweet nights.

Lemon Verbena

This one is a sunshine-soaked classic. Lemon Verbena smells like a freshly cleaned house with the windows open and a breeze blowing through. It’s bright, crisp, and has just enough herbal goodness to keep it from being too sweet. I love using this scent during the day when I need a boost—it’s like a cheerful little nudge saying, “You’ve got this, girl.”

Frozen Margarita

Now this is a party in wax melt form. Frozen Margarita brings the good times straight to your kitchen, minus the blender and the mess. It’s zesty, bold, and has that tangy lime note that makes you feel like you’re beachside with your toes in the sand. Trust me—if you’re having folks over, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.

Watermelon Lemonade

Watermelon Lemonade is my go-to scent when I want to lean fully into summer mode. It’s juicy, sweet, and smells like a picnic under the shade tree. The combo of watermelon and tart lemon is refreshingly playful—think pink drinks, sunshine, and maybe a game of cornhole in the backyard. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you even doing?

Manicured Lawn

Okay, hear me out—this one’s different and I love it for that. Manicured Lawn is green, earthy, and clean. It reminds me of early mornings when the grass is still wet with dew and someone just finished mowing the yard. There’s something nostalgic and calming about it. I like to melt this one when I’m doing laundry or tidying up—makes me feel like the whole house just got a fresh haircut.

Orange Creamsicle

Talk about a throwback. Orange Creamsicle takes me straight back to summer afternoons chasing the ice cream truck barefoot. It’s got that sweet vanilla cream base with a pop of orange citrus on top. If you love dessert-inspired scents that aren’t too heavy, this one’s a dream. I’ve been known to melt this right after dinner just to keep the cozy mood going.

Thinking Ahead… Just a Bit

Even though these scents are keeping my summer vibe alive, I’ve already started testing a few early fall fragrances for Mama Crow’s—and let me tell you, they are good. I won’t spoil it just yet, but if you’re as obsessed with fall as I am, keep your eyes peeled for the scent swap that’s coming real soon.

For now though, I’m holding on tight to my sunshine and citrus. There’s still a little summer left, and I plan on soaking up every last golden drop.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Why the 4th of July Is Always Bittersweet for Me

Posted on July 4, 2025July 5, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

The 4th of July isn’t a holiday I look forward to. Years ago, I lost my grandma on this day. While most people are celebrating, it’s always been a little heavy for me. I smile through it, try to make the best of it, but deep down, I’m always carrying that loss with me. Not to mention, our country is a mess right now.

Our Usual Traditions Took a Hit This Year

Normally, we keep it simple—barbecue, fireworks, and swimming. That’s how we’ve always done it. But today, the rain had other plans. It rolled in and washed everything out. No grill. No swim. No big fireworks show.

We did manage to throw some hot dogs on and watch our neighbors shoot off fireworks from the driveway. It wasn’t what we planned, but we made it work.

A Bob Ross Date Night Saved the Mood

After the fireworks fizzled out, we tried something new—and it might just become a tradition. We pulled up a Bob Ross video and had ourselves a little painting date.

Y’all… we laughed so much. Neither of us had ever done oil painting before, but we followed along, happy little trees and all. And believe it or not, they actually turned out pretty dang good. It was fun, relaxing, and honestly just what we needed after such a gloomy day.

The Heartbreaking News Out of the Hill Country

Even with our small moments of joy, it’s been hard to ignore the heaviness in our state right now. The Texas Hill Country—one of my favorite places in the world—has been hit with catastrophic flooding overnight and into today.

The Guadalupe River rose more than 30 feet in Kerrville. Homes, RVs, and cars have been swept away. People are missing. And what really breaks me… at least 24 dead and 23 girls from Camp Mystic are among those unaccounted for.

It just rips at your heart. I can’t stop thinking about those families. The fear. The waiting. The unknown. This isn’t just another news story—it’s our people. Our state. Our communities.

It Didn’t Feel Like a Day to Celebrate

Between the weather, the memories of my grandma, and the devastation in the Hill Country, today didn’t feel like something to celebrate. It felt like a day to slow down. To reflect. To hold your people a little tighter.

Texas is hurting. And my heart is with every family affected. We’re strong, we’re resilient—but today, we’re grieving.

Finding Comfort in the Small Things

Even though this 4th didn’t go how we planned, I’m grateful for the little moments. A simple meal. Fireworks down the street. Laughter over paintbrushes and Bob Ross wisdom. Sometimes the small things help carry you through the heavy ones.

And maybe that’s worth holding onto.

Let’s Travel to Las Vegas, Nevada

Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Danor Aharon from Pixabay

Las Vegas, Nevada, is a dazzling desert destination known for its world-famous entertainment, over-the-top attractions, and vibrant energy. But beyond the bright lights of the Strip, Vegas offers unique museums, stunning natural wonders, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re catching a show, riding a roller coaster, or exploring the nearby Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Image by Esther Carabasa from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

The Strip Isn’t in Vegas: Most of what people think of as the Las Vegas Strip is actually located in Paradise, Nevada—not the city of Las Vegas itself.
Neon Museum: Vegas is home to the Neon Boneyard, a resting place for the city’s retired neon signs, preserving its flashy past in glowing color.
World’s Brightest Spot: The Las Vegas Strip is visible from space thanks to its massive concentration of lights.
Red Rock Canyon: Just a short drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives through desert landscapes.

Image from Pixabay

Useful Information

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather without the extreme desert heat.
What to Wear: Lightweight, breathable clothes are ideal, especially during warmer months. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and comfy shoes for lots of walking.
Getting Around: The Strip is walkable, but it’s long. The Monorail, buses, ride-shares, and taxis are convenient options. Renting a car is handy for day trips.

Image by Marco Fenner from Pixabay

What to Do

Ride the High Roller: Located at The LINQ Promenade, this 550-foot observation wheel offers unbeatable views of the Las Vegas skyline.
Explore the Bellagio Conservatory & Fountains: Stroll through seasonal floral displays and catch the famous water fountain show set to music.
Visit the Shark Reef Aquarium: Located at Mandalay Bay, this family-friendly attraction features sharks, rays, sea turtles, and more.
Check Out the Neon Museum: Learn the history behind Las Vegas’s glitzy signs and snap photos with iconic pieces of the past.
Take a Day Trip to Red Rock Canyon: Hike or drive through stunning desert scenery just 30 minutes from the Strip.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

Let’s Travel to Grand Teton National Park

Posted on June 16, 2025June 17, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by G Poulsen from Pixabay

Grand Teton, Wyoming, is a breathtaking destination that draws travelers with its rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and unmatched wildlife. Located just south of Yellowstone, this national park offers a quieter yet equally majestic escape into the wild. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the mountain air, Grand Teton is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression. So, pack your gear and get ready to experience the soul-stirring beauty of the American West.

Image by Mike Goad from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

Towering Peaks: The Teton Range includes Grand Teton, which stands at 13,775 feet and is one of the most photographed mountains in the country.
Jackson Hole Valley: Grand Teton National Park borders this picturesque valley, which is known for its charming town, ski resorts, and rich cowboy culture.
Abundant Wildlife: The park is home to moose, bears, elk, bald eagles, and bison—many of which can be spotted without ever leaving your car.
Historic Homesteads: Mormon Row is a famous site within the park, featuring preserved 19th-century buildings with the Tetons rising dramatically in the background.

Image by Jim Jorstad from Pixabay

Useful Information

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall (June to September) offers the best weather for hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing.
What to Wear: Dress in layers and pack sturdy hiking shoes. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly. Don’t forget sunscreen and bear spray.
Getting Around: Renting a car is essential for exploring the park and nearby Jackson Hole. Scenic drives like Teton Park Road offer incredible views.

Image by gfay33 from Pixabay

What to Do

Hike Jenny Lake Trail: One of the park’s most popular trails, this scenic loop offers views of waterfalls, crystal-clear water, and towering peaks.
Take a Boat Ride on Jackson Lake: Enjoy a relaxing boat tour or rent a kayak to explore this peaceful alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Visit Mormon Row: Snap photos of the historic barns and structures set against the stunning backdrop of the Teton Range.
Scenic Drive on Teton Park Road: This route provides unforgettable vistas, wildlife sightings, and access to many popular trailheads.
Explore the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s geology, ecology, and human history through engaging exhibits and ranger programs.

A Father’s Love: Steady Hands, Strong Hearts, and Lifelong Lessons

Posted on June 15, 2025June 16, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

Fatherhood isn’t just about biology—it’s about being there. It’s the steady presence, the quiet strength, the lessons passed down through simple moments: tying a shoelace, learning to cast a fishing line, or that first wobble down the sidewalk without training wheels.

Today, we celebrate fathers of all kinds. The ones who show up day in and day out. The stepdads who step in without skipping a beat. The grandfathers who fill in the gaps. The uncles, coaches, big brothers, and mentors who help raise the next generation with patience and love.

Some folks grow up never knowing the kind of father who sticks around—and I carry that truth close, especially knowing half of my own children didn’t get that kind of father figure in their lives. It’s a reminder that having a present, loving father is not something to take for granted.

That’s why I’m forever grateful for the man I got to call Daddy. He taught me how to ride a bike, how to fish, and how to stand on my own. His presence shaped who I became, and I know how rare that gift is.

And now, as I look at my four boys—grown men who’ve stepped into fatherhood with strength and pride—I see that same love being passed on. Each of them makes me proud, not just as their mama, but as a woman who believes deeply in the power of a good father.

Happy Father’s Day to every man out there doing his best. And with all my heart, Happy Father’s Day to my Daddy and to my four boys—thank you for being the kind of men worth celebrating.

The Craziest Things to Ever Happen on a Friday the 13th

Posted on June 13, 2025June 14, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

Some folks run from it, others laugh in the face of it—but around here, Friday the 13th just might be in our blood.

My mama is a triplet, and they were born on Friday the 13th in the already spooky month of October. Their 13th birthday also fell on Friday the 13th! Years later, one of my cousins showed up on the same date-same kind of eerie timing. And wouldn’t you know it, two of my grandsons, Isaiah and Eli, were also born on Friday the 13th. At this point, we might as well start a club.

So while some folks hide under the covers or side-eye black cats, I say bring it on. That spooky little square on the calendar has delivered more than its fair share of surprises—some beautiful, some bone-chilling. And across history, Friday the 13th has been blamed (and rightly so) for all sorts of strange, tragic, and downright unbelievable events.

If you’re curious (or brave), here are some of the wildest, weirdest, and most haunting things to ever happen on a Friday the 13th.

The Andes Plane Crash (1972)

One of the most harrowing survival stories in history began on Friday, October 13, 1972. A Uruguayan Air Force plane carrying 45 people, including a rugby team, crashed into the Andes Mountains. Stranded in freezing conditions for over two months, the survivors faced impossible decisions, including resorting to cannibalism to stay alive.

Their story became the basis for the book Alive and several films. The crash and what followed turned a freak accident into a legend—forever tying Friday the 13th to one of the most haunting real-life survival tales ever told.

The Stock Market Mini-Crash (1989)

Wall Street has its share of bad days, but Friday the 13th in October 1989 delivered a doozy. Known as the “Friday the 13th Mini-Crash,” the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 6.91% in a single day due to a mix of market rumors and panic selling.

It wasn’t the worst crash in history, but it sent shockwaves through the financial world and fueled the notion that Friday the 13th is bad luck for business, too.

The Buckingham Palace Bombing (1940)

On September 13, 1940—yes, a Friday—the Nazis bombed Buckingham Palace during World War II. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth were in residence when the palace was hit. Miraculously, they were unharmed.

The event was a powerful symbol of British resilience, but to this day, it’s one of the more eerie examples of how Friday the 13th doesn’t care about titles, thrones, or royal blood.

Rapper Tupac Shakur Dies (1996)

Tupac Shakur, one of the most influential rappers of all time, died on Friday, September 13, 1996, six days after being shot in a drive-by in Las Vegas. His death remains one of hip-hop’s greatest tragedies—and mysteries—fueling countless conspiracy theories and dark speculation.

Whether you believe he’s truly gone or sipping cocktails on an island somewhere, his death on Friday the 13th only adds to the legend.

The Costa Concordia Disaster (2012)

On Friday, January 13, 2012, the cruise ship Costa Concordia struck a rock off the coast of Italy and capsized. Over 30 people lost their lives in what became one of the worst cruise ship disasters in modern history.

The captain was later convicted of manslaughter and abandoning ship, which only added to the drama. For those aboard, this wasn’t just a bad day—it was a full-blown maritime nightmare.

The “Friday the 13th Virus” (1989)

No, not the slasher flick—this was a real computer virus. On Friday, October 13, 1989, a virus dubbed “Friday the 13th” or “Jerusalem” wreaked havoc on computers across Europe and the U.S.

It was programmed to delete files on that specific day. Thousands of machines were affected, and it was one of the earliest examples of how even technology isn’t safe from superstition.

Kansas Flooding Disaster (1951)

On Friday, July 13, 1951, the state of Kansas was hit by one of the most devastating floods in U.S. history. Rivers overflowed, towns were submerged, and over 500,000 people were affected.

It caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damage and is still remembered as one of the worst natural disasters in the region—cementing Friday the 13th’s reputation as a harbinger of chaos.

A Teen Is Struck By Lightning—At 13:13 On Friday the 13th (2010)

You can’t make this up. In 2010, a 13-year-old boy in Suffolk, England, was struck by lightning at exactly 13:13 (that’s 1:13 PM) on Friday the 13th. Miraculously, he survived with only minor burns.

If that ain’t the most cursed-sounding set of numbers in a news story, I don’t know what is.

Flight 571 Engine Explosion (2012)

A Scandinavian Airlines flight from Copenhagen to Helsinki experienced an engine explosion mid-air on Friday, April 13, 2012. The pilot made an emergency landing, and no one was seriously hurt, but it left passengers shaken and headlines blazing.

Folks who boarded that plane on Friday the 13th probably checked their horoscopes real quick after landing.

The Death of Alfred Hitchcock (1980)

Master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock died on Friday the 13th in April 1980. Known for films like Psycho, The Birds, and Vertigo, Hitchcock was the king of cinematic creepiness.

It’s oddly fitting that the man who made millions squirm in their theater seats exited this world on one of the most ominous days on the calendar.

Friday the 13th, the Franchise That Fueled Fear

While not a real event, the Friday the 13th horror franchise has left an undeniable mark on pop culture. The first film dropped in 1980 and introduced the world to Jason Voorhees and his signature hockey mask.

The franchise only added fuel to the fear, turning what might’ve been a quirky superstition into a full-on horror holiday.

In Conclusion

Friday the 13th may just be a date on the calendar, but for some, it’s a whole mood—and not the good kind. Whether it’s cursed coincidences, strange weather, or history-making disasters, this day keeps showing up in all the wrong headlines.

Believe it or not, it makes for a wild ride every time it rolls around.