As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to get into the fall spirit than by immersing yourself in the loving world of Stars Hollow. Admittedly, I only started watching Gilmore Girls 2-3 years ago, and I find myself watching episodes when I am in the mood for feel-good TV. In addition, now, it’s a tradition to rewatch the episodes starting in September. Seriously, Gilmore Girls is fall! This beloved TV series is renowned for its witty humor, heartwarming moments, and enduring bond between mother and daughter Lorelai and Rory Gilmore. To help you fully embrace the autumnal vibes, I’ve compiled a list of eight must-watch fall-themed episodes from Gilmore Girls. So grab your favorite fall drink, snuggle up in a cozy blanket, and immerse yourself into the world of Stars Hollow.
Season 1, Episode 7: “Kiss and Tell”
In “Kiss and Tell,” the residents of Stars Hollow are gearing up for their annual autumn festival, and Lorelai is excited to participate in the kissing booth. Meanwhile, Rory is navigating the complexities of teenage romance. This episode captures the essence of small-town fall festivals with colorful foliage, cider, and charming festivities. It’s a heartwarming introduction to the cozy, community-oriented world of Gilmore Girls.
Season 2 Episode 4, “The Road Trip to Harvard”
After Lorelai’s engagement is off, she and Rory embark on a spontaneous road trip that ends at Harvard University, learning more about Rory’s “future” college home. Ahhh, the memories of college tours.
Season 3, Episode 7: “They Shoot Gilmores, Don’t They?”
This classic episode centers around the annual Stars Hollow dance marathon, a quintessential fall event. Lorelai, Rory, and the rest of the town participate in the 24-hour dance-a-thon. The episode is filled with autumnal decorations, cozy sweaters, and the competitive spirit often accompanying fall festivals.
Season 3, Episode 9: “A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving”
Thanksgiving is a quintessential fall holiday, and this episode captures the Gilmore family’s unique and quirky approach to the celebration. Lorelai and Rory attempt to have four Thanksgiving dinners in one day, leading to comical mishaps and memorable moments. If you haven’t tried this at least once, are you even Thanksgiving right? It’s a heartwarming reminder of the importance of family and tradition during the fall season.
Season 4, Episode 9: “Ted Koppel’s Big Night Out”
What a juicy episode! Rory’s grandparents invite her and Lorelai to a Harvard-Yale football game. Tailgating is the epitome of fall for football lovers! During this, Lorelai meets her could-have-been mother, and Rory learns of Paris’ untraditional fling. It’s a nostalgic episode of fall and college life with a slice of rivalry.
Season 5, Episode 7: “You Jump, I Jump, Jack”
Fall brings new adventures to Stars Hollow, and in this episode, Rory experiences the thrill of a secret society event. The episode features a daring stunt involving jumping off a platform with an umbrella, echoing the feeling of taking risks and embracing change that often comes with the changing seasons.
Season 6 Episode 6, “Welcome to the Dollhouse”
In an effort to boost tourism to Stars Hollow, the town attempted to change the street names, which caused the Dragon Fly Inn to be on Sores and Boils Alley – yuck! Meanwhile, Rory received a Birkin bag from her boyfriend, Logan. The episode had a fall theme with pumpkins, hay, and an apple pie served by Luke at his diner, making it hard not to feel the autumn spirit.
Season 7 Episode 18, “Hay Bale Maze”
After completing a promising job interview, Rory gives Logan a tour around Stars Hollow. As you can imagine, as Rory shows Logan around, bales of hay are “naturally” lying in the road as the town prepares for the Spring Fling. However, with all of the town’s budget spent on hay, the town is reminiscent of your typical small-town maze at a fall festival!
As we officially enter cozy szn, Gilmore Girls offers a heartwarming and nostalgic way to embrace the fall spirit. These eight episodes capture the essence of autumn in Stars Hollow, with its small-town charm, festive traditions, and the enduring love between mother and daughter. So, whether you’re sipping on hot apple cider or enjoying a cozy evening by the fireplace, these episodes will transport you to a world where fall is not just a season but a feeling of warmth, love, and community. Which episode will you watch first?
