As August begins to wind down, the excitement for the fall season reaches new levels. Soon we will be saying good-bye to lazy days tanning at the beach, warm nights, and outfits consisting of shorts, tank tops and flip flops. I will never be one to wish away the summer, but with plenty to look forward to in the coming months, it makes the end of summer more bearable. Here are some of the best things about fall.

1. Sweater weather

The fall months are perfect for people who can't quite deal with the sticky, uncomfortable heat of the summer and aren't ready to endure sub-freezing temperatures and a foot of snow. Cool, crisp mornings lead into sunny afternoons that pair perfectly with a light sweater or sweatshirt.

2. Fall fashion

Fall weather plays a big part in the fashion statements that are made from September through November. For girls, chunky sweaters, boots, layered cardigans and scarves are some of the essential go-to looks. For guys, flannel shirts and jeans make the perfect statement.

3. Back to school

Some may view this as a bad thing, but for college students, going back to school is something they wait months for as it means reuniting with their best friends and getting back into a groove. Even for those who've graduated, college homecoming weekends and sporting events are great opportunities to catch up with old friends and revisit their glory days.

4. The scenery

Writing this as a New England born and bred girl, I'm completely biased when I say that no one does fall better than we do. From the rolling hills of Connecticut to the baron country roads of Vermont, the autumn season makes New England a visual marvel with breathtaking foliage painting the landscape.

5. The flavors

Those who argue that the pumpkin spice craze is excessive have a good point, especially when they go as far to make pumpkin-flavored pasta, Oreos, yogurt, etc. But there's no denying that pumpkin pie, apple cider doughnuts and candy corn are treats that can make anyone love fall.

5. Local fairs

Large and rickety fairs alike pop up every weekend in fall, and it's always a good idea to try and make it to at least one. The sights, smells, and tastes of the fair will consume you and make you wish that they didn't come around only once a year.

7. The holidays

First comes Halloween, which in turn means jack-o'lanterns, haunted houses, costumes and candy. But if that doesn't satisfy you, Thanksgiving happens to be right around the corner in all it's eat-until-you-pass-out glory.