How to Have a Gilmore Girls Inspired Fall
Graphics by Anika Dua
The iconic show Gilmore Girls opens with a catchy theme song and quintessential shots of brightly colored leaves floating in the wind, setting the stage for the perfect autumn binge-watch. Many of the show’s seven seasons center around this time of year, with Stars Hollow representing the perfect New England fall. So, here are a few recommendations and tips to enjoy for your very own Gilmore Girls autumn.
Fall-Themed Episodes
While there are many, these are some of the most fall-coded episodes in the show. From season one, enjoy episode six, “Rory’s Birthday Parties” and episode seven, “Kiss and Tell.” Since Rory’s birthday lands on October 8th (we see you, Libras), you’ll experience Stars Hollow decorated with pumpkins and covered in red, yellow, and orange foliage. In the following episode, the town is preparing for their annual Fall Festival, which includes Rory and Lane in their pilgrim costumes. From season two, episode four, “Road Trip To Harvard” there’s nothing quite like academia and bed and breakfasts for that cozy fall aesthetic. In season three, enjoy episode nine, “A Deep Fried Korean Thanksgiving.” It’s Thanksgiving– what more is there to say? Lastly, in season five, episode seven, “You Jump, I Jump, Jack,” Rory gets to know the dreamy Logan Huntzberger and the rest of the Life and Death Brigade at a high-end camping adventure in the woods. Of course, there are far too many fall-themed episodes to list, but these are just a few of the best.
Recipe for a Gilmore Girls Night In
Rory and Lorelai have mastered the girl’s night in, complete with snacks, movies, and takeout. Their go-tos are Chinese food, pizza, and of course, burgers and fries from Luke’s Diner– along with plenty of chips, popcorn, and candy (can’t forget the Mallowmars). Get comfy in your coziest pjs and turn on Casablanca, Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory, Hardbodies, West Side Story, The Shining, or Flashdance, just some of the many movies Rory and Lorelai enjoy in the show. You can even hit the movie theater, as Rory and Lorelai often stop by the Black-White-Read Movie Theatre, which doubles as Stars Hollow’s bookstore (Rory approved).
Local Diners
There’s barely a day in the show where Rory and Lorelai don’t stop by Luke’s Diner for a meal and plenty of “coffee, coffee, coffee.” Luckily, there are plenty of diners nearby in Syracuse that can substitute for the famous Luke’s. Stella’s Diner has a long menu to choose from and servings that could humble the Gilmore Girls, while feeling very family-friendly. Mother’s Cupboard is another great place to visit. It’s small and cozy, with everything feeling very homemade and comforting during a chilly fall day. Rise N Shine Diner is a bit fancier, but provides a delicious menu that’ll leave you wanting to come back every weekend.
Road Trip Time!
Although Rory and Lorelai aren’t nature girls, they still embark on a road trip or two– and what better time to do that than fall? Get a group of friends together and hop in the car to go visit Skaneateles, which could pass for Stars Hollow’s cousin. Spend some time shopping on Main Street, and of course stop for some coffee on the way. You can also head to any of the nearby parks and waterfalls, including Pratt’s Falls, Tinker’s Falls, or even Green Lakes State park for a casual walk through beautiful fall scenery. Grab a book or two for the road, or if you’re really channeling your inner Rory, a dictionary and encyclopedia will do.
There are endless ways to make you fall as cozy as Gilmore Girls makes it out to be. Grab your favorite oversized sweater, a good cup of coffee, and start watching. You’ll quickly see why Gilmore Girls is the perfect show for fall – so get out there and enjoy the season, the Rory and Lorelai way.