Our families say it, our friends say it, the songs on the radio say it. Christmas is the best time of the year. But why do we associate so much happiness with a holiday in the dead of winter? Maybe it is has to do with those nights when you’re driving home, tires crunching on freshly fallen snow, sun setting behind the trees, multi-colored lights strung on every roof top in town. Or maybe it is the anticipation of spending the day with your family, snuggled by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate. Here is a compiled list of all the reasons why Christmas is the warmest, happiest holiday.

1. Snow

If you live in a place where you are lucky enough to experience snow, you know how magical it is. Watching the flakes accumulate, covering rooftops and trees in a thick blanket of white. Admit it, we all relate to Lorelai Gilmore when the first flakes of the season fall.

2. Christmas Trees

It is never too early to put up the tree. Stringing lights and placing ornaments is enough to put anyone in a good mood. Not to mention, there is no feeling that compares to seeing the Christmas tree light up the room on Christmas Eve.

3. Music

Whether you prefer the classics or more recent remake, everyone has that one Christmas song that immediately gets them in the spirit. The jingle of bells and the hanging of holly just sounds better when "Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree" is playing.

4. Decorations

Wreathes, holly, lights. All essential in transforming a room into something out of a Christmas catalog. The more the merrier and twinkling lights make everything even more magical.

5. Lights

Putting up the Christmas lights is a memory everyone has. Coming

home from school and turning the lights on was always the best part of the day. Plus, trying to outdo your neighbors is a just a thing that has to happen.

6. Movies

Just like music, there are the classics and the new releases. ABC Family’s 25 Days ofChristmas is reason enough to love the holidays. The classics just keep coming!

7. Food

Food is arguable the best part of every holiday, but something about a Christmas feast just makes this holiday the greatest thing ever. There is everything from honey ham to Santa shaped cookies to candy cane hot cocoa, all equally tasty.

8. Presents

Giving and receiving presents makes the heart happy. Personally, I love giving presents. The looks on the faces of my friends and family when they open their gifts is like nothing else.

9. Family

There is nothing better than being surrounded by friends and family, but that just seems to be amplified around the holidays. Meeting with those important to you and sharing stories and laughs makes the holidays warm and happy.