Season 4

22 episodes · 2003

After returning from a summer of backpacking through Europe, Rory and Lorelai frantically prepare for Rory's move to college.

Lorelai helps Rory move into her dorm, where she meets an odd new roommate, and learns that she will also be sharing her room with a familiar face.

Emily redecorates Rory's dorm room without her permission. Lorelai and Sookie cater a kids' birthday party with a "Lord of the Rings" theme.

While visiting Stars Hollow for the weekend, Rory encounters Dean, who awkwardly invites her to an event the next day.

Lorelai struggles to hide details of her life from Emily. Rory discovers that college dating isn't easy. Lorelai invites Luke over for movie night.

Emily hires Lorelai and Sookie to cater an elaborate launch party for Richard's new company, but insists they prove that they are worthy of her trust.

Rory and Lorelai participate in a Stars Hollow event in which the townspeople dress up and present tableaux imitating famous paintings.

Rory tries to spice up her articles for the student newspaper. Luke admits to Lorelai that he is revisiting a past relationship.

Emily realizes that Richard has been secretly meeting someone for lunch for years. Lorelai accepts an invitation to dinner.

Lorelai and Sookie renovate their inn. Lorelai enjoys a romantic evening. Rory is irritated by Paris's new relationship.

Lorelai is upset that Luke has gotten an apartment in another town. Rory learns that a guy she likes has been spreading false information about her.

Luke is wary when his sister comes to town. Lorelai hesitates to tell her parents about her new beau. Paris's affair gets serious.

Rory crosses paths with Jess in Stars Hollow. Luke's sister visits Stars Hollow and introduces her new boyfriend to her brother.

Overwhelmed by her classwork, Rory confides in Dean, who's working on the construction crew at the Dragonfly Inn.

Rory gets a glimpse of Dean's new life. When Lorelai and Rory spend a day at the mall, they run into Emily on a wild shopping spree.

Richard is devastated by a sudden loss. Emily receives a shock when she finds an old letter that was written to Richard.

Rory and Paris head south for their first spring break in Florida, where they run into a couple of their old pals from Chilton.

Jason and Richard are sued. Rory is upset by a decision Dean has made. Dean is told to stop spending time with Rory.

Lorelai confronts her father when she learns that he has cut business ties. Luke gives Lorelai an update on his love life.

A self-help tape helps a depressed Luke realize who his soul mate is. Lorelai is stressed as the Dragonfly Inn's opening day approaches.

Jess walks his mother down the aisle at her Renaissance-themed wedding. Luke asks his new love interest on a date. Dean confides in Rory.

Lorelai invites friends and family to do a test run of the Dragonfly Inn opening. Two suitors pursue Lorelai.