As parents' weekend is approaching, I've come to reflect on the things I've loved about parents' weekends the last three years and found the five best things about it. Of course, every weekend in college is great--but this one is just a little more special than the rest. Here are the five reasons family weekend is the best weekend all semester:

You get to see your parents

This is the obvious one. Some people go all semester without being able to go home, and this is a weekend to spend quality time with your parents and/or siblings. This is a fun way for you to feel a little piece of home right here in Iowa City, and it's always just nice to be able to have a couple days with your parents after not seeing them for so long.

You probably get to eat at a nicer restaurant than usual

Your parents will hopefully treat you to food other than Subway and dorm-food chicken. This is a treat and luxury that isn't savored enough. Nothing gets me more excited than the slightly pricey, but very delicious restaurants in Iowa City that I can't afford on my own, but that my parents take me to when they visit. Iowa Chop House, I will be seeing you soon.

Your tailgate consists of things other than cheap beer

Wait, there's actually dips? And appetizers? And quality beer? What's going on and where are the stacks of keystone?

You might get some name-brand groceries

If you're lucky, your parents will offer to grab you a few groceries before leaving for the weekend. This means not having to buy the generic brand foods that taste just a little bit off. Last parents' weekend my parents bought me deli meat from the actual deli instead of the pre-packaged kind, and I felt like a queen.

You get to show off Iowa City

The best part of all is that you are a part of this new, incredible home in Iowa City and you get to share it with your parents. From the beautiful campus, to the friendly people there is always something to brag about. So bring your parents' up this weekend and show off our awesome town, I know they'll love it just as much as you!