Every September, before the leaves fully turn, one flavor reclaims its place at the center of attention: pumpkin spice. Some love the cinnamon flavor and say it reminds them of coziness and the incoming year, while others groan at the thought of the overbearing orange drink, leaving us with thoughts of pumpkin spice: yay or nay?

The fans of the flavor argue that the hype is completely deserved. For many, it is more than a drink, but a type of nostalgic ritual that jumpstarts the school year. Sophomore Lucy Li is firmly “yay,” saying: “For me, pumpkin spice is comfort. It reminds me of warm and cozy mornings. I love getting it at a local bakery in Princeton, and drinking pumpkin spice lattes with friends after school.” Li usually enjoys her pumpkin spice in coffee, but is open to muffins and other pumpkin spice flavored delicacies. To her, the drink is tied to calm mornings and tradition: “It reminds people of fall and cozy moments, kind of like a tradition,” Li explains. For a majority of students, those types of vibes are part of the charm, with the comfortable sweaters, apple-picking plans, and the start of holiday anticipation. Simply put: it’s a vibe.

Of course, not everyone is convinced. Some argue that the flavor has become too repetitive and commercialized, dominating coffee shops and the internet. Do we really need pumpkin spice-scented dish soap? Candle-flavored pumpkin? Pumpkin spice dog treats? For them, the line between festive and excessive grows thinner every year.

Still, while the trend may spark debate, it does not seem to be going anywhere. Li believes the hype as longevity. “I think it’ll stay. People like having something to look forward to every year,” she says. And from the steady, excited lines at cafes across Princeton, it is clear many students agree. 

Whether you enjoy it proudly or barely tolerate it, pumpkin spice is an integral part of autumn culture. It’s more than a drink flavor: it’s a feeling that signals that fall has officially arrived.