The declaration of autumn comes in magnificent hues of mustard, cinnamon, and burgundy. The trees begin to ponder their impending slumber, chunky sweaters and cozy knits emerge from the depths of closets, fireplaces radiate and crackle, and Gilmore Girls marathons begin. Since its release more than two decades ago, this epitome of an autumn binge has captivated millions. The show mimics a one-way segue to quick-witted, quip-filled, pop culture-infused banter and conversation. The reputation that Gilmore Girls has formed for itself fittingly prompts the question, “why is Gilmore Girls so loved as an autumn classic?” From the soundtrack to the fall ambience, several elements take effect to construct the fall classic religiously watched by many. 

First, enthusiasts of the pleasantly quaint town revisit the show annually for the 2000’s fall nostalgia. Originally broadcast from October 2000 to May 2007, the show can be accurately described as the quintessence of life of an academic-focused teenage girl and an unconventional yet loving mother in the early 2000’s. Lorelai and Rory Gilmore embellish this life with dynamic celebrations, fights, relationships, their everlasting love for music and movies, and the duo’s dreadful diet of junk food. This nostalgia is glaring in the bulky phones, fashion, and locations around town that make viewers feel warm and serene. Every episode is based on the itinerary of visits to Luke’s Diner, the castle-like mansion of the Gilmore grandparents, town meetings, the preppy school of Chilton, or Kim’s Antiques. The direction of an episode is always a mystery waiting to unfold because of the show’s ability and willingness to simply wander and stroll. Moreover, the comforting soundtrack consists of 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s artists such as Carole King, Sam Phillips, PJ Harvey, The Bangles, and more, fully immersing viewers in the culture and atmosphere. 

Fall, the season of change, was perfectly calculated to be the setting of every season of Gilmore Girls. The mother-daughter duo of the show go through intense change and growth. The series depicts this transition in weather seeing as the people of Stars Hollow appear to be constantly preparing for colder weather, as illustrated by their distinctive charming and eccentric town activities. During the winter months, the tropes of community, loyalty, and motherhood become increasingly apparent and feel more like home. The town is more tight knit and everyone seems to be staying home for the holidays, introducing more side stories of development for different characters. The comfort in seeing a character that resonates with one’s self contributes to the cozy factor that autumn brings to the table. Calista Ngyuen (9) avows her love for the show, saying, “Gilmore Girls is my comfort show because I love the setting – I love the cozy small town feel and everyone’s style is amazing.”