Falling for fall: what makes autumn so appealing

Autumn offers more than just pumpkin spice — here’s why it captures our hearts

Olivia Garber and Amelia Gutierrez

October 2, 2025

Crisp leaves, cozy vibes and Trader Joe’s fall goodies.

Amelia Gutierrez

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. – Have you ever wondered why people love fall so much?

Stepping into a retail store and seeing hues of orange and yellow, with scents of pumpkin and cinnamon, immediately makes you feel at home.

For many, the beginning of a new season is a fresh start. This can make people motivated to embark on a new journey. The sense of a new beginning often coincides with the psychology behind autumn, including the earthy hues, scents and colorful fashion, which bring a sense of optimism.

During fall, activities such as pumpkin picking, baking cookies, festivals, hay rides and apple picking are popular among all age groups. But why all the hype over fall?

Psychology dictates that for many, fall offers nostalgia and comfort from the harsh summer. As temperatures change, colors become more muted, which masks the distractions of a fast-paced world.

“I think (fall’s) nostalgic. Psychologically, we look forward to things that are not mysterious. People know that it’s going to get cold and that we’re going to be able to wear a sweater and have soup and sit under a blanket and sip pumpkin spice lattes. said Mr. Anderson, Los Alamitos High School psychology teacher.

Another reason is through psychological association. Over time, people have begun to associate autumn with social holidays and events like Halloween, Thanksgiving and the start of the football season.

“There’s some holidays associated with (fall) too. And to be honest, I’m sure a lot of kids really look forward to the certain food that are common during (these activities),” said Mr. Anderson.

Many also anticipate Starbucks’ new fall menu, including the pumpkin-spice and cinnamon-flavored items. The flavors of fall evoke a strong nostalgia for the season. Stores like Trader Joe’s and Target offer a wide variety of fall-flavored goods.

In addition to these delicious flavors, popular scents like pumpkin pie, candy apple, and marshmallow are incorporated into products such as candles, air fresheners and body washes. People flock to Bath and Body Works and Sephora for a new fall-scented perfume or room diffuser.

“I like it because it’s in between summer and winter, it’s a nice transition between hot and cold weather,” said Hannah Jun, a LAHS senior.

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