As “Gilmore Girls” celebrates its 25th anniversary, fans flock to Connecticut to relive the charm of Stars Hollow, a fictional town that has captured hearts since 2000. The beloved series premiered in October, and despite its conclusion in 2007, its influence persists through a resurgence in streaming and fan engagement.
The Allure of New Milford
New Milford, located in northwest Connecticut, closely resembles the show’s setting. Its picturesque town green, adorned with white-steepled buildings and small local shops, mirrors the ambiance of Stars Hollow. The gazebo at the center of town serves as a gathering place for fans who seek out the “Gilmore Girls” experience.
A Weekend in the Life Festival
Recently, New Milford hosted a “Weekend in the Life” festival, attracting thousands of enthusiasts. This event featured meet-and-greet opportunities with various cast members, contributing to the festive atmosphere.
- Date of festival: September 14
- Main attraction: Meet Scott Patterson, who played Luke Danes, a pivotal character in the series.
Young fans like 11-year-old Abby Thorgersen and her friend Rylie Nicollet traveled from New York to participate. They even dressed in outfits reminiscent of Rory Gilmore, showcasing their enthusiasm for the series. Abby revealed, “I’ve seen it like 15 times from start to finish,” emphasizing the show’s longstanding impact.
Community Joy in Celebrating ‘Gilmore Girls’
Attendees at the festival expressed their joy in meeting cast members and connecting with fellow fans. Many, including fans from as far as Ohio, shared that the local charm reminded them of Stars Hollow’s friendly atmosphere. Shawna Tobens, visiting from Celina, Ohio, stated, “New Milford feels the most like Stars Hollow.”
The Inspiration Behind ‘Gilmore Girls’
The true essence of Stars Hollow is disputed among towns in Connecticut. Washington, a neighboring town with about 4,000 residents, also claims the title as the show’s inspiration. Creator Amy Sherman-Palladino gathered ideas for the series while staying at the Mayflower Inn in Washington, which became the fictional Independence Inn.
- Show inception location: Mayflower Inn, Washington
- Creator: Amy Sherman-Palladino
The connection to “Gilmore Girls” significantly boosts tourism in Washington, with data showing a spike in visitors seeking the experience. Michelle Gorra, Economic Development Coordinator for Washington, highlighted that content related to the series is highly engaging, driving significant traffic to the town’s tourism site.
Conclusion
As “Gilmore Girls” marks a quarter-century, its legacy continues to resonate. The series boasts a dedicated fan base and influences Connecticut’s local culture, drawing visitors eager to immerse themselves in a place reminiscent of their favorite show. Whether in New Milford or Washington, the essence of Stars Hollow lives on for all who cherish its memorable characters and heartwarming stories.
