Long lazy days spent at the beach, seeing friends we haven’t seen in months, and that adventurous frame of mind are the reasons we spend all year waiting for summer. After all, how can we not crave the time away from classrooms and nights spent in front of the campfire? So, as we enter into the last few weeks of this most glorious season it can leave some of us feeling the post-summer blues. However, fall is coming in it's place and these top five reasons will negate any hard feelings about parting ways with the sticky summer heat.

1. Pumpkin everything

From the month of September–December, all flavors are put to rest in order to welcome in the most iconic flavor of the season: pumpkin. It lets all the other scents and flavors take a holiday while pumpkin finds its way into everything like candles and desserts, and even things more outlandish like pasta and vodka. And of course, the most infamous drink of the season for common girls everywhere, the pumpkin spice latte.

2. Clothes

It may be hard to say goodbye to those short shorts and flip flops, but the cure for that most summer depression is undoubtedly fall apparel. After all, how can you possibly miss tank tops when cozy, oversized sweaters and flannels are just around the corner? Leggings, boots, and plush scarves complete the look, making for a stylish few months until we are all forced to cover up in bulky coats and snow boots.

3. Changing leaves

As soon as early September came 'round, the trees shed their plush greenery in exchange for leaves in some of the most breathtaking colors that nature has to offer. Vibrant yellows and warm red and oranges, splatter the outdoors, painting the word into one perpetual sunset. This beauty is especially prominent in New Paltz, where the trees are abundant and the mountain tops boast their new coats as far as the eye can see.

4. Halloween

Arguably one of the best holidays there is, Halloween is not just a day, but a state of mind. The entire month of October is one big spook fest, filled with aisles of candy, costume parties, and haunted houses. Even the planning of the day is an event in itself, as you put together your favorite costume and coordinate with your besties to make sure you have the best looking squad of the night. Oh and of course Halloween would not be complete without binge watching Halloween movie favorites like Hocus Pocus and Halloweentown, all while chowing down on your favorite fun-size candies.

5. Activities

While there is a new chill in the air, fall is a great time to explore the outdoors and enjoy some activities exclusive to the season. Gather your family and friends and head out to your favorite local farm for pumpkin and apple picking. Even enjoy a hay ride while you're there and munch on some fall comfort food like apple cider donuts and roasted corn. It's the perfect way to create lasting memories and get some killer Instagram-worthy pictures in the process.