As a native Mainer, winter has never been a stranger to me. While it’s dreaded and hated by the majority of the population, there’s a certain magic to winter that just cannot be replicated in any other season.

Yeah, summer weather can be nice, but here are 30 reasons why winter is simply the best season, and why you should be excited about the snowy holiday season.

1. ALL the hot chocolate

2. Cancelled classes

If you don't think waking up to a "classes canceled" email is the greatest feeling ever, you're lying.

3. The Christmas spirit

4. Cozy fireplaces

Another great feeling: Coming inside from the cold to a crackling warm fire and curling up with a book and a hot drink.

5. The first snowfall

6. Christmas lights

Because it's impossible to be unhappy surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights.

7. Beanies and scarves

8. Peppermint everything

Peppermint mochas, peppermint bark, candy canes....you name it. Winter is peppermint season, and that's pretty freaking great.

9. The perfect excuse to stay in

10. Christmas movies

If you don't watch Elf at least 5 times, is it even winter?

11. Time with family

12. Ice skating

Name a cuter winter date, I dare you.

13. The smell of pine

14. Ugly sweater parties

I'm sorry, but you just can't rock that reindeer sweater in July.

15. Snowball fights

16. Christmas music

Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You". Enough Said.

17. Cozy sweaters

18. New Years Eve

Because champagne and sparkles.

19. Icicles

20. Slippers and fuzzy socks

Cozy feet are the best feet.

21. So. Much.

Comfort food. 22. Snow globes

Because they make everyone happy.

23. Building a snowman

24. Dogs in sweaters

Sweaters on puppies. Totally unnecessary, but oh so necessary.

25. Sledding

26. Flannel PJs and onesies

At this point, we've established that winter is the season of being cozy af.

27. The gift of giving

28. Skiing and snowboarding

We all know those people that spent every second of the weekend on the slopes, and maybe you're one of them.

29. Christmas cookies

30. Time to appreciate the little things

Winter is about appreciating the little things, from the smiles of reuniting families, to the individual beauty of snowflakes that land on your jacket, to the act of communities giving to those in need. It's a truly magical time of year that everyone should appreciate.