The holiday season has been referred to as "the most wonderful time of the year" time and time again. Here's just thirteen things about the holiday season that make it so magical!

1. Ugly Christmas Sweaters.

Let's be honest. You know you secretly love pulling your go-to ugly Christmas sweater out of hiding annually.

2. Christmas trees galore.

At my college, there are Christmas trees EVERYWHERE. In the library (to make the daunting task of studying for finals a little more festive), in the cafeteria, outside the Chapel, and in most of the academic buildings. Seeing them is just another reminder that it's a joyful, happy time of year.

3. Everyone's in a pretty happy mood (with the exception of finals week)

C'mon. How could you NOT be happy when "Jingle Bell Rock" is constantly playing on the radio? That's right. It's impossible.

4. Christmas candy.

If you claim you don't have a stash of candy canes, chocolate Santas, or starlight mints in your dorm room, you're blatantly lying.

5. Holiday movies.

Elf! The Santa Clause! Home Alone! The list can go on and on. The holiday season is chalk full of amazing films.

6. Your favorite holiday jams making a comeback.

You've waited all year to hear Mariah Carey's rendition of "All I Want For Christmas Is You." Get pumped!

7. Getting to see family, friends, and loved ones.

It's so exciting to come home and see your loved ones, truly a reward after working so hard during finals week!

8. The satisfaction of giving a really good gift.

There's nothing like the smile on your friend's face when they open the gift you got for them that SCREAMED their name the moment you saw it!

9. The return of Peppermint Mocha.

By far the best seasonal drink Starbucks has to offer, by the way. Pro-tip: the Snowman cookie and Peppermint Mocha make the perfect duo!

10. Being able to act like a kid again in the snow.

Go on. Get excited about the snow, build a snowman outside your dorm, go sledding with your pals.

11. Surprise snow days and delays.

Your 8 am is cancelled? Heck yeah!

12. The opportunity to help other people.

Get involved at a soup kitchen or donate a gift to a child or family in need with a local organization. It's so important to give back during this time of the year; it's one of the most wonderful aspects of the season.

13. Getting to reflect on another year and set new aspirations for the upcoming one.

Since the holidays fall right before the beginning of the New Year, they make for the perfect time to reflect on all that you're grateful for.