Sorry summer enthusiasts, but fall is finally here.
The autumn season officially starts September 22nd at 10:29 P.M. EST / 9:29 CST / 7:29 PST. And while many are mourning the passing of warm beach days and comfortable clothing, others just can not wait for fall to finally get here. Whether you love spending time with your family on the holidays or can't get enough of pumpkin spice lattes, there's something for everyone to enjoy in fall. Here are 10 reasons to get excited about fall.
1. Football, Football, Football!
The wait is over, and the NFL is back. Only three weeks of professional football have passed so far, ensuring some top notch gridiron action for the next few months.
2. Oktoberfest
Whether you have German heritage or are just proud to take in the fun, Oktoberfest events will be kicking off late September into October across the country.
3. Cooler weather
2014 gave the US one of the hottest summers in recent memory, with record highs in parts of southern California and other western areas. As fall begins, you can finally break out that cold wardrobe that's been sitting in your closet and give your A/C unit a well-deserved break.
4. Marathon season
For those who love to give their legs and lungs a killer workout, fall is heaven, as it promises some of the best running events of the year. Plus the crisp weather is very welcoming as runners tie up their shoes and head for a sprint.
5. Colored leaves
They may be a pain to rake, but watching as trees shine their bright, colored leaves is one of fall's greatest pleasures.
6. Holidays galore
Fall is home to the holidays, with Halloween on October 31st and Thanksgiving on November 27th. Plus the December holiday shopping season is always a joy to partake.
7. Fall TV season
For viewers who have been getting tired of summer reruns, fall promises a fresh new slate of shows to appeal to all of your dramatic and comedic sensibilities. (Psst: Love ABC shows? Check out our fall premieres page).
8. Award-worthy movies
Fall is typically the time of year when the studios hold onto their best films to compete in awards season. So expect to see some Oscar-worthy flicks in theaters come October.
9. Pumpkin everything
Whether you've been getting your morning caffeine fix on pumpkin spice lattes or have been kicking back with a delicious new pumpkin brew, your taste buds will savor the sweet orange spices of fall.
10. Early ski season
Skiing is more typically associated with winter months, but many resorts in the U.S. will open mid-November, promising some fresh fall powder.