As both the temperature and the leaves fall, students look forward to the sublime scenes of autumn. The crunching leaves, pumpkin flavored drinks, sweaters and fuzzy socks all represent the best season of the year: fall.

According to a 2013 study from YouGov.com, fall was reported as America’s favorite season. What beats drinking hot apple cider, going to pumpkin patches or haunted houses? Nothing. Certainly not suffering in the snow of winter or melting in the sweltering heat of summer. The crisp air rejuvenates all of us as we prepare for the harshness of the upcoming winter. Whether you are a football fan, scary movie fanatic or just happy about cooler temperatures, everyone has a reason to love fall.

Particularly, the fall holidays are what make the season better than the other rivaling seasons. Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, and Thanksgiving, all have their specific specialties and importances that students can find a way to enjoy in one way or another. The nostalgia of watching Halloweentown on Disney Channel or catching up with family members over Thanksgiving break are both looked forward to when that first gust of cold wind hits. The extra hour of sleep gained after ending Daylight Savings is yet another reason to look forward to the season.

Not only do the holidays make this season superior, but also the weather. Sweater weather is the best time of year; no melting in the humidity of summer, no freezing in the depth of winter, no drenching downpours of spring. Not to mention, the pesky mosquitoes are gone. It’s the season for bonfires and friends. Perfectly cool air made for snuggling up with a book (or Netflix) and a cup of tea.

The enjoyment of the season has science to back it up. Sociologist Kathryn Lively explained to Huffington Post that a love for fall is instilled in us since childhood. Going back to school, getting new supplies and seeing friends all attribute to our love of the season. September is also the month with the most birthdays, which is why many people enjoy the season; they start it off with cake and celebration. Also, fall is scientifically the best season to fall in love. Hence, “cuffing season.” According to Dr. Helen Fischer, chief scientific adviser for Match.com, shorter days in autumn lead to melatonin levels rising in the brain, making you more sluggish and eager to relax at home, preferably with a boo. This combined with rising testosterone levels around November, makes one want to snuggle up even more.

Finally, there’s new shows on most networks. Fall is always the season for premiering new shows or new seasons. Not to mention the start of football season, so when the weather is less than perfect, odds are there is something begging to be watched inside.

It’s no wonder fall is America’s favorite season. The combination of science, unanimous joy, and memories connected with fall kindles a love for this time of year. So, break out the sweaters, enjoy the seasonal drinks, and enjoy autumn while it lasts, because sadly it’s not here for long.