As the days grow shorter and the air takes on that familiar chill, fall and the holidays invite us to pause, savor, and celebrate. It’s a season of gathering, whether around the table, by the firepit, or simply at home, and of traditions both old and new. At CIRCA Magazine, we’re honored to share features that reflect those moments and help you make the season your own.

In this issue, you’ll find inspiration for creating spaces that feel festive and meaningful. From practical gardening advice to prepare for winter, to the timeless beauty of camellias as a fresh holiday alternative to poinsettias and amaryllis, and the versatility of greenery that carries your home from Halloween through Christmas, nature shines at the center of the season. We also explore how heirloom treasures can be reimagined with modern touches, along with tips to get your home holiday-ready in simple, manageable steps.

From home to wardrobe, we step into fall style with cozy-meets-chic inspiration and take a closer look at the fabrics we wear, and why fiber content deserves a second look.

Food and drink are also at the heart of the holidays. Here you’ll discover lighter protein swaps to refresh your fall cooking, the sweetness of figs, and a holiday table inspired by Spanish flavors and tradition. For those raising a glass, we explore wines from around the world and share a spiced oatmeal raisin old fashioned made with Kill Devil Pecan Rum – a holiday toast with coastal roots.

And because gathering is what this season does best, we lean into the glow of the firepit. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows with a seasonal twist, grilling hearty foods over the coals, or lingering with coffee, cocoa, or mulled wine, the fire draws people together. It turns ordinary evenings into lasting memories, reminding us that some of the most meaningful traditions are those that are cooked in tradition. That warmth around the fire and the table also inspired our cover for this issue.

This issue also highlights balance and reflection. Our self-care survival guide offers ways to find calm in the holiday chaos, while features on rebalancing your finances, safeguarding celebrations, and planning ahead for senior living provide tools for peace of mind.

Beyond the home, we spotlight destinations that bring our region to life. Hendersonville, with its mountain charm and Appalachian culture, makes the perfect fall getaway just a few hours’ drive from Raleigh. Closer to home, the new Gipson Play Plaza at Dorothea Dix Park shines as a true local gem.

All of this, and much more, can be found in this issue of CIRCA. At its heart, our magazine is about connection: to community, to tradition, and to the moments that matter most. These pages celebrate the season in every way – through décor, style, food, family, and the comfort of home.

As always, I’m grateful to our talented writers who bring these features to life, and to our advertisers whose support makes CIRCA possible. This holiday season – and all year long – I encourage you to support these wonderful businesses, as they help our community, and this magazine, thrive. Wishing you a happy fall, and the happiest of holidays!