Cooler fall weather brings with it lots of opportunities for getting together with friends: football tailgating, harvest celebrations, casual weekend bonfires, and holiday season kick-off parties. These types of parties for family and close friends need fun foods to get things rolling. You might pin hundreds of adorable, themed appetizers on Pinterest, but when a party rolls around you resort to bringing store-bought chips and salsa that you pick up on your way to the gathering. If you are ready to embrace the spirit of fall and be the fan favorite at your next party, consider one of these creative fall appetizers:

German Beer Cheese Spread

Truly get into the spirit of Oktoberfest with this show-stopping spread that tastes like fall. The flavors of cheese and beer are naturals together, and this recipe from Brown Eyed Baker will help you achieve spreading perfection in only 20 minutes. Continue the German theme with this one by serving with chunky pretzels or pumpernickel bread. Don’t worry—non-alcoholic bread also works for this spread if beer isn’t your cup of tea.

Aloha Meatballs

A fun rendition of plain old meatballs, these “aloha meatballs” will surely be gone within moments of setting them out on the table. And believe it or not, this can be served as an option for your vegan friends—yes, there is such a thing as vegan meatballs. Check out this recipe to see how you can keep everyone happy with chunks of meat, a pineapple, and a toothpick. This is definitely an appetizer for the rushed hostess or party guest.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo wings are a staple for fun snacks with friends, especially during football season. This recipe from none other than Miss Rachel Ray herself gives you a fun twist on the classic. The chicken, the hot sauce and the cooling ranch flavors are all rolled together in this addictive dip that is much easier to chow down on than sticky, messy wings. Pair it with cheese snacks and crackers for a perfect appetizer. Check out this website for endless options to find the perfect cheesy compliment to this fiery dip.

Crispy Baked Onion Rings

There are always plenty of soft breads, desserts and fruit at a party, but some guests will want a little crunch to mix things up. Now, when you envision making your own onion rings you might imagine yourself wearing a hairnet and getting splattered by hot oil. However, these onion rings from the Damn Delicious blog are baked in the oven, and literally provide a no-mess, no-stress appetizer that’s easier than you think. Believe it or not, these are a healthier option since they are baked (not fried), and even provide a good option for any vegetarian friends on your guest list.

Pumpkin Pie Dip

Every party needs at least one choice for those with a sweet tooth, and you can’t go the entire autumn season without making something pumpkin flavored. All of the flavors of pumpkin pie are here—without all the baking! This simple dip recipe from Dip Recipe Creations takes just minutes to throw together and has endless options for dipping materials. You can try apple slices, ginger snaps, vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or your own signature cookies.

Pin Them All!

Don’t let the creativity stop with the recipes. Use your imagination and pair these appetizers with your own creations or family favorites. You can also get creative with presentation—hollow out a pumpkin, place a glass bowl inside, and you’ve got a festive bowl for your dip or snacks. Whatever the occasion, your fall get-together is sure to be a success when you go off the beaten path and provide guests with an appetizer that won’t disappoint.