It almost happens overnight. A chill can be sensed in the 95-degree heat.

The first Saturday of the college football season brings much relief to those waiting on the long summer months to come to a close.

I, for one, love summer, but the only consolation of its end is the beginning of sporting rivalries and beautiful autumn leaves falling.

College football Saturdays begin at 8 a.m. on ESPN’s College GameDay and the day doesn’t end until the last down. As we saw Saturday night in the Mississippi State vs. Southern Mississippi game, sometimes it doesn’t end until after midnight.

There is something about college football that is just fun.

In the south, it’s almost a way of life with nearly everyone choosing where they put their allegiance.

Summer cookouts turn into tailgates. Schools across the country welcome numbers of people onto their campuses.

Traditions abound with each school doing some rituals the same ceremonious way for years.

Neighbors and friends are sometimes seen as sworn enemies. A comradery forms between people who just met and are wearing the same colors.

Sure, it’s still officially summer until Sept. 23, but with football season in full swing and it being Labor Day, I’m already looking ahead at what autumn will bring.

Drinks, candles, air fresheners and so much more are already starting to be offered in pumpkin flavor. Before we know it, fall festivals will begin, like the Y’s Men’s Oktoberfest Sept. 20 and the Downtown Vicksburg Fall Festival Oct. 3. Soon pumpkins and cornucopias will decorate our homes.

Autumn is the season during which a lot of people start to get active and back outdoors after the sweltering heat of summer. Vicksburg has a multitude of runs, walks and rides within its city and beyond. The Color Run on Sept. 19, Bricks and Spokes Oct. 3 and Over the River Run Oct. 10 are all great ways for the community to show off what they have to offer and raise money for causes in need.

I’m looking forward to all the opportunities I’ll have to fill my social calendar with fun activities and to participate with the community in support of local organizations.

Labor Day may be the end of swimming pools and beaches for some, but it’s just the beginning of what we in the south do best, hospitality. Whether its through hosting events or tailgates, the community will continue to support each other as the seasons change.