Ted Rooney

Hal and the boys get competitive when the local church starts to undercut them on Christmas tree prices.

While Rory struggles to keep the budding rivalry between Dean and Jess under control, Lorelai invites most of the citizens of Stars Hollow to an elaborate feast.

Lorelai is determined to win the annual Stars Hollow dance marathon, and forces Rory to be her partner, and Rory and Jess argue nonstop, even with the townspeople whirling around them on the dance floor.

On the eve of Sookie's wedding, Lorelai and Rory's father spend a romantic night together, and Rory is so happy to see Jess she greets him with a surprisingly passionate kiss.

Rory makes a moving valedictory speech on graduation day; Rory discovers Lorelai is making a huge sacrifice to pay her tuition; Richard and Emily present their granddaughter with a lavish gift.

Rory's first day at Chilton Prep begins badly when Lorelai accompanies her daughter into the intimidating school wearing a T-shirt, cut-off jeans and cowboy boots, an outfit that draws disapproving stares from the other mothers.