Kevin Nichols

Founder's Day has finally arrived, and everyone is busy with last-minute preparations for floats and fireworks. Although Damon and Alaric do their best to stop him, John Gilbert sets a plan in motion that brings Founder's Day to an end amid chaos, destruction and death.

On his birthday, Stefan is surprised by a visit from Lexi, one of his oldest friends. Still upset by the events at the Halloween haunted house, Elena does her best to stay away from Stefan. Plus, Damon's offer to help Sheriff Forbes has sudden and tragic results.

Elena demands that Stefan explain the frightening events that have been happening in Mystic Falls. In flashbacks, Stefan explains how his rivalry with Damon began. Back in the present, Damon impulsively takes control of Vicki's future, and a terrified Vicki runs away.

Tyler learns more about the Lockwood family curse from Mason. Elena tries to keep Jeremy from becoming more involved with the Lockwood mystery. Mason gives Sheriff Lockwood some startling information, leading to a night of violence, confession and heartbreak.

A viral video of Jane jeopardises her career and reputation; the squad tries to solve a murder case involving a conspiracy theorist.