With every new season comes its traditions. For autumn, the tradition seems to be that everything becomes pumpkin-scented or flavored, including candles, muffins, and even Oreos. The face of autumn comfort, however, is pumpkin coffee. We New Englanders love our coffee, and pumpkin coffee gives us the opportunity to mix our favorite season with a favorite flavor.

Some people hear the words “pumpkin-spiced” and immediately sigh in disappointment, but for what reason? It’s not that pumpkins are gross, it’s that the stereotype associated with pumpkin-spiced lattes is, for lack of a better word, cringeworthy. However, adding the spiced flavor to encapsulate the seasonal change is a delicacy for fall-lovers in New Hampshire. Graham Bates ‘18 is one of the many who enjoys pumpkin during this time of year: “If it’s fall time, absolutely. I’m down for anything.”

While some people are against pumpkins, many people see them as the wonderful, versatile fruits they are. Madeleine McCann ‘18 “already [has] a collection of pumpkin spice car scents.”

But when does the line cross from a reasonable flavor change to a gross stretch for sales? For some, the line doesn’t exist; if it’s fall, make it festive. Kristen Roy, Spanish teacher at HBHS, said, “For my friend’s birthday, we went out to dinner and had pumpkin ravioli.” She added, “It was unbelievable.” Trying new things can pay off, and, in this case, an adventurous flavor choice ended in a night full of tasty pasta.

I used to think pumpkin-flavored products were overrated and a stupid fall tradition that people only pretended to care about, until I finally decided to give them a try. Pumpkin bread has become my favorite fall food, and the pumpkin-flavored coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts is my go-to beverage in the morning. All I’m saying is don’t knock it until you try it.