12 of pop culture’s best birthday moments

“Rory’s Birthday Parties,” Gilmore Girls

“Rory’s Birthday Parties” is the sixth episode of the first season of Gilmore Girls and the perfect example of what perfect television writing looks like to me. It’s the first episode that clearly defines the differences between the lavish, affluent Richard and Emily Gilmore world and the world of their daughter and granddaughter. While Lorelai and Emily differ on how to throw a great birthday party, it’s clear that the only thing either of them wants to do is give Rory a 16th birthday party that she’ll enjoy.

The episode debuted way before I got anywhere near 16, but I remember it setting the bar for how exciting I wanted my 16th birthday party to be, too. But I think the coolest part about “Rory’s Birthday Parties” is that she had the most fun when she was at home surrounded by friends and family. And amidst all that, the episode contained plenty of touching moments as well. Between Emily learning that Lorelai broke her leg once and Richard learning that he is “an Autumn,” I always felt really comforted by the fact that both worlds could collide with only minimal damage, despite the fact that Emily’s plans looked like they were going to be too big at one point.

As Lorelai explained:

“The government will close that day. Flags will fly at half-mast. Barbara Streisand will give her final concert… again. Now, the Pope has previous plans, but he’s trying to get out of them. However, Elvis and Jim Morrison are coming, and they’re bringing chips.”

To top season 1’s big fest, the Gilmore girls would later have to do things like build the world’s largest pizza and go to Atlantic City. I mean, what’s the biggest thing you’ve ever done for your birthday?

-Buckie Wells, co-expert