Here’s How Much Free Swag You Can Score on Your Birthday

Whether you’re turning 19 or 90, your birthday is *always* cause for celebration. Along with hosting an awesome birthday party and getting a ton of Facebook birthday cam vids, one of the best parts about turning a year older is walking into your fave store and having them hand you free swag… just for being born! But this year we aren’t stopping with our usual gratis Starbucks drink — we’re scoring loot at 17 stores offering birthday giveaways that together total over $300 in free stuff!

Food and Treats

1. Baskin Robins ($3): Sign up for Baskin Robins’ Birthday Club, and you’ll get a free ice cream on your birthday. You don’t even have to scream for it!

2. Pinkberry ($5): When you apply for PinkCard Loyalty, this specialty fro-yo chain will email you a coupon for a free fro-yo to celebrate your big day.

3. Dunkin’ Donuts ($3): Head over to the Dunkin’ Donuts website and register for DD Perks to ensure yourself a free medium birthday drink.

4. iHOP ($7): Score a completely free birthday meal by signing up for Pancake Revolution online.

5. Panera ($3): Whether you’re looking for something sweet or something savory, signing up for MyPanera will earn you one free pastry on your birthday.

6. Red Robin ($10): Celebrate turning a year older with a free burger by registering for Red Robin Royalty.

7. Starbucks (up to $149, but realistically probably $6): While most people know that signing up for Starbucks Rewards will earn you a free bday drink, most people don’t know that the record for the most expensive Sbux drink ever was set by William E. Lewis Jr. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida for a 173 shot flat white. Now that’s a lot of (too much) caffeine!

8. Au Bon Pain ($9): Signing up for ABP’s eClub will earn any birthday lady a free lunch at this upscale chain. Ooh la la!

9. Benihana ($30): When you register your membership to the Chef’s Table, Benihana will grant you a $30 gift certificate to be used *anytime* during your birthday month. Post-bday celebration, anyone?

10. Buffalo Wild Wings ($12): Register for Buffalo Circle to get a free snack-size order of traditional or boneless wings on your bday.

11. Godiva ($10): What’s a birthday without a little chocolate? Signing up for Godiva Rewards Club will earn you a sweet $10 gift card to use on anything you fancy during your birthday month.

Makeup and Beauty

12. Benefit Cosmetics ($23): Get your eyebrows on fleek in time for your big bash with a free brow arch service on your birthday.

13. Sephora ($20): Signing up for Sephora’s Beauty Insider program will earn you one luxury birthday gift pack. While the gifts vary depending on the season, they have been known to include some amazing goodies like Tarte Lip Paint and Caudalie skin care minis.

14. ULTA Beauty ($12): Registering for ULTA Beauty’s Ultamate Rewards program will get any makeup junkie a free gift on their bday.

15. Urban Decay ($19): Urban Decay fangirls *need* to sign up for UD Beauty Junkies — not only do you get access to sweet promotions throughout the year, but you also get a free full-sized eyeshadow single to celebrate your birthday.

Specialty Stores

16. Hallmark ($7): Even though you’re probably not going to be giving yourself a card, signing up for Crown Rewards will get you a free one to use at a later time… plus a great coupon too!

17. Victoria’s Secret ($10): We’ve heard a rumor that Victoria’s secret is that she can’t turn down a good party. Registering for an Angel Card will get you an awesome free birthday gift.

What freebies will you go for on your next birthday? Tweet us your hot finds @BritandCo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

(Photos via Getty)

We've been talking about discovering the best drugstore mascaras, matte lipsticks and brow gels, but did you know you're supposed to replace your makeup products annually? This is one of those things TikTok gets right because beauty doesn't have an immortal shelf life. If you're getting the ick thinking about that trusty concealer you've used the last few years, we don't blame you!

Before you start rage or panic-cleaning, I chatted with the experts to understand what to replace — and when you should replace them! After hearing from Shawnelle Prestidge (Makeup Artist and Founder/CEO of PRESTIDGE beauté) and Joey Healy(Advanced Esthetican and Founder of Joey Healy Eyebrow Collection), I feel way more confident with my beauty cabinet. Here's what you need to know!

TL;DR

  • You can find a product's PAO (period after opening) date — AKA expiration date — on the back of the packaging.
  • Mascaras and eyeliners have the shortest shelf lives, and they should be replaced around every 3 months.
  • Foundation and concealers should be replaced once a year.
  • Lipsticks can be replaced once a year, but lip glosses can last up to 18 months.
  • Powder-based products can last a year and a half to two years.
  • Nail polishes are good for up to three years.
  • Fragrances start to break down after five years.

How can someone check the expiration date for their makeup?

Rachel Weeks

How many times have you picked up your order from Sephora or Ulta without looking at every detail of your makeup products? We're guilty of being more concerned about adding something to our routine too so don't feel like you're being called out! If you're not 100% sure how to start being mindful about something's shelf life, Prestidge and Healy want to let you in on a little secret.

"It's actually pretty simple. There's something called a PAO symbol, which stands for 'period after opening.' You'll find it on the exterior of makeup products — sometimes on the product itself but always on the box," he says. Wondering what it looks like? Healy says, "The PAO symbol looks like a small jar with a number followed by the letter 'M,' which stands for months. For example, '3M' means three months, '6M' means six months, and '12M' means twelve months."

Prestidge also adds, "Brands often print batch codes that consumers can input into websites like CheckCosmetic to determine the production date." If you've yet to open your product, Healy says "A good rule of thumb is to assume it will last about twice as long. So, if the PAO says '6M,' the product is good for six months after opening and likely up to twelve months if unopened."

Do some makeup products have a longer shelf life than others?

Tima Miroshnichenko

Based on what Healy shares, it's evident different makeup products have longer shelf lives than others, and there are plenty of different factors that determine why. "Products like mascara and eyeliner, which are used around the eyes and tend to be liquids or creams, typically have the shortest shelf life due to their risk of bacterial growth. You should replace them every three months," he says. Excuse us while we collectively clutch our pearls.

Now that we've caught our breath, we can breathe a sigh of relief because Healy says that's the only products we have to replace a little quicker. "Foundation and concealer, which are also liquids, can usually last up to a year. Lipstick is good for about a year, while lip gloss can last around 18 months," he shares. Still, Prestidge feels you should be especially mindful of liquid and cream products because their shorter lifespans are attributed to "their high water content which fosters bacteria."

For those of us who love other face products, we have an even longer time to replace them. "Powders, like brow powders, bronzers, and blushes, have a much longer shelf life — usually a year and a half to two years," Healy explains. Prestidge says this is because "they contain fewer ingredients prone to bacterial growth." And for good measure, Healy shares we can keep nail polish for "three years before it becomes dry and clumpy," and fragrances for "five years before they start to break down."

What are the top signs it's time to replace makeup?

Element5 Digital

Not always good at keeping track of when you bought your makeup? No worries — there are some key signs you can recognize that your makeup is likely expired. Healy points out you'll be able to see that "the formula may have shifted or separated, or the product may have dried." More often than not, both he and Prestidge agree expired products will often smell rancid. "For example, brow gel can smell musty if it's been sitting unused for a year. If you're unsure, it's better to throw it out," encourages Healy.

Not only that, but Prestidge says to pay attention to your product's color. "If the product's color shifts, it's a a sign it's degraded," she says. Also, your skin will let you know when expired products are irritating it. "If you notice itching, redness, or breakouts after using a product, it might be expired, she alerts.

To avoid this, go an extra step further by using a "label maker to note the purchase date on your products, or keep a record in your phone," suggests Healy. This will help lessen the chance you're using something that's full of harmful bacteria.

What can happen if someone keeps using expired makeup?

Polina Tankilevitch

There are some things we'd love for you to be rebellious about, but using old makeup isn't one of them. Healy feels the same way and says, "Using expired makeup increases your risk of infection and irritation, which can lead to unsanitary conditions and even bacterial contamination."

The last thing we want is for you to get sick because you didn't want to let go of something. While symptoms may not always be as severe — Prestige says you could see allergic reactions, redness, or acne — Healy reminds us that "at the worst, it could result in serious infections that require treatment." This could look like developing styes or pink eye if you're "using old mascara or eyeliner," according to Prestidge.

Plus, your makeup won't give you the look you're going for if it's expired. "Expired products may no longer perform as intended, compromising coverage, color, or longevity," she says. Healy's ultimate advice? "Always be cautious, check for the PAO symbol, and replace products when needed."

Beauty Products You Need To Replace Every 3 Months

Amazon

Lancôme Lash Idôle Volumizing Mascara

If you're going to replace your mascara, you need a comparable alternative that's going to give your lashes the length and volume you're used to having. Be sure to add this one to your cart today!

Amazon

Urban Decay Glide-On Eye Pencil

Knowing that eyeliners go near your precious eyes, you'll want something that has a waterproof and smudge-proof formula like Urban Decay's Glide-On Pencil. You'll get up to 24 hours of wear that'll make you glad you decided to go for this option.

Beauty Products To Replace Every One To Two Years

Amazon

ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation

If you're going to wear foundation, you should opt for something that feels like your skin. The medium coverage feels weightless and has a good dose of niacinamide and allantoin in it to help improve your texture over time.

Amazon

e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer

Get all the benefits of a high quality concealer without the luxury price with this $7 formula. It's hydrating so you're less likely to experience any creasing when you're trying to set it with your favorite powder.

Amazon

Revlon ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick

Give those lips a boost of color with Revlon's ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick! You're going to get the best wear out of this no-transfer shade that has powerful pigment that doesn't cost more than $15.

Amazon

NYX Professional Makeup Fat Lip Oil

Want juicy lips that don't feel sticky? You have to get this fat lip oil. You'll get up to 12 hours of wear that doesn't require you to reapply it which sounds like the very thing we could all use.

Amazon

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Pressed Powder

Headed to an event and want an airbrushed look that makes jaws drop? You'll be hard-pressed not to have this pancake-type powder. It visibly minimizes your pores while also soaking up excess oils.

Amazon

Physician's Formula Butter Bronzer

This yummy bronzer had us at hypoallergenic. It's going to give you a sun-kissed glow that'll make people wonder if you've been vacationing during colder months, but you don't have to share your inexpensive secret if you don't want to.

Amazon

Covergirl Trublend So Flushed Blush

You need a blush that's going to work with your makeup and not against it. Instead of spending a fortune on something you're not sure will work, give Covergirl's Trublend product a spin. You'll get amazing pigment that lasts throughout the day and won't irritate your skin.

Browse our Amazon Storefront for more fun beauty buys!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

It’s time to sound the alarms because Gladiator 2 will be hitting theaters right before Thanksgiving, and it’s the true Roman Empire we’ve been waiting for! We saw Russell Crowe’s character Maximus boldly reclaim his legacy in the first Gladiator, but the sequel will follow another character’s storyline. It’s one of our most-anticipated 2024 movies and we can’t wait to dish about all the important details you need to know!

Get your popcorn and one of our delicious cocktail recipes ready because you’re in for a real treat!

Watch The New 'Gladiator 2' Trailer Now

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Denzel Washington, and Paul Mescal are absolute electricity together! And the use of "No Church in the Wild" by Jay-Z and Ye? My jaw literally dropped.

The only question I have is can these three powerhouses form an alliance that'll change the future in Gladiator 2? No matter the outcome, there's sure to be sizzling action...and bodies. And by sizzling, I really mean it. Paul just revealed in an interview with EW that his arena scene, which will feature a CGI rhino, was so hot, he was "borderline throwing up."

"We shot that for about two or three days, but the heat was just….My Irish blood does not function with Ridley's shooting schedule, which is like sun up to sun down, hottest parts of the day," he says. "It was brutal, the fight. I grew up playing sports, so I would consider myself pretty robust and happy to throw myself around, but it was just the [arena] itself became like a radiator. I was borderline throwing up, irritable, just hardcore. Between takes I was firing ice straight down my back."

Pedro Pascal also recalled a few memorable moments from shooting the film, and my personal favorite was what sounds like the greatest blooper of all time. "I was running off the drawbridge, and they kind of dressed it with some dust so that when it slams against the fortified wall, there's a big puff of smoke, of dust," he says. "And I'm charging off the drawbridge and jumping over the wall, and I slip,. I literally bounce off the drawbridge on my —ss and land splat in front of Paul's feet on the first take." And in true Pedro fashion, he followed up with, "Are you not entertained?"

"There was a moment when we were rehearsing my fight scene with Pedro, and I had an idea towards the end of the scene to kiss Pedro on the forehead," Paul adds, referencing a cut scene. "I was like, 'Ridley: Kiss on the forehead, did you like it? Yay or nay?' There was radio silence for a second. His radio crackles back, and [Ridley] goes, 'I'm afraid I did.'"

Your First Look At Paul Mescal In 'Gladiator 2'

Paramount Pictures

The first look at Paul Mescal's character Lucius features our new lead ready for battle. All I have to say is wherever Paul leads, I follow.

What is the plot for Gladiator 2?

Paramount Pictures

Gladiator 2 Plot

Keeping true to the characters the first film introduced, Gladiator 2 will focus on Paul Mescal's Lucius. He's a gladiator who's been exiled to fight — similar to Maxmius' fate — and hasn't seen his mother Lucila in over a decade.USA Todayalso reports there'll be a nod to Maximus as young Lucius has great respect for the legacy he left behind.

When is Gladiator 2 coming out?

Paramount Pictures

Gladiator 2 Release Date

Gladiator 2 will premiere in theaters November 22, 2024. Check out the rest of this year's fall movies to see what else is coming this year.

Who will play Lucius in Gladiator 2?

Paramount Pictures

Paul Mescal plays Lucius in Gladiator 2.

Who else is in the Gladiator 2 cast?

Paramount Pictures

Gladiator 2 Cast

The Gladiator 2 cast also features Connie Nielsen as Lucilla, Lucius' mother, Fred Hechinger (from The White Lotus) as Co-Emperor Caracalla, Joseph Quinn (from Stranger Things Season 4) as Co-Emperor Geta, Pedro Pascal (from The Last of Us) as General Marcus Acacius, and Denzel Washington as the wealthy and powerful Macrinus, who oversees the gladiators.

Who's directing Gladiator 2 and can we expect a lot of action?

Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

We're happy to share that director Ridley Scott will once again make the script of Gladiator 2 come alive for viewers. Aside from directing the first film, this is the same genius who gave us other cult classics like the Alien franchise, Blade Runner, Thelma & Louise, Hannibal, and so much more!

Given Ridley Scott's proven film record — and the new trailer — we'll definitely see some action! Variety reports he said, “It is possibly even more extraordinary than the first...well worth the wait.”

He also hinted that he has Gladiator 3 on his mind. "There’s already an idea," he said and even referenced The Godfather II as prime inspiration for it (via The Hollywood Reporter).

Are you excited to see Gladiator 2? Follow us on Facebook for more entertainment news!

This post has been updated.

Some of us have sensitive tear ducts that seem to get triggered if the wind blows a little too hard — which can make it so tough for those of us who love a good liquid eyeliner. Suddenly, you look like you were just sobbing about a breakup, when in reality your allergies just got the best of you, leaving streaks of eyeliner and mascara.

However, it IS possible to find the best liquid eyeliner to wear that's long-lasting, waterproof, and perfectly pigmented. Skip the hard-to-grip and smudgy products for these 7 incredible options I found. Trust, you'll barely have to reapply them throughout the day, leaving your makeup flawless for hours and hours!

The Best Liquid Eyeliner Ever! 

Target

e.l.f. Expert Liquid Eyeliner (Set of 2)

This is virtually unheard of, but this is probably the best liquid eyeliner you're ever going to wear. 88% of Target's customers recommend it, feeling you're getting the best quality for your money. Though it doesn't have the highest long-lasting rating, it still gets the job done when wearers need it to.

What are customers saying about it?

e.l.f. Cosmetics

From Target:

  • "i got this eyeliner like a few months ago and let me tell you its the best eyeliner I've ever got, its so easy to apply and good for beginners and STAYS ALL DAY."
  • "goes on easily and dries with no cracks to create a flawless look"
  • "I've used this liquid eyeliner for years- really can't beat the price!"

From e.l.f. Cosmetics:

  • "It's a good liner but it does fade after about four hours so you have to touch it up."
  • "It's a great eyeliner especially for hooded eyes."
  • "I have tried many and these just seem to stay put and stay smooth for a long time over so many other brands."

Amazon

NYX Epic Ink Liner

There's a reason why this is considered the best liquid eyeliner on Amazon. It's the overall pick as it's been purchased over 30,000 times and has a 4.5 rating! Also, Amazon noted it's something most customers keep which speaks volumes. So, what makes it so great?

It's a matte, waterproof formula that's going to give you a long-lasting effect and it has a super short precision tip to make your lines look on point. Whether you're going for a cat-eye look or something to complete your Halloween costume, this is your best bet!

Other Popular Liquid Eyeliners

Amazon

Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen No-Skip Eyeliner

Aside from NYX's Epic Ink Liner, Maybelline's liquid eyeliner is another popular pick on Amazon. It has a similar precise tip that ensures it'll glide on easily — even if your hand isn't the steadiest. It's also hooded eye-friendly (IYKYK) which should bring a sigh of relief to anyone who's tired of seeing smudged eye makeup.

Amazon

Stila Deluxe Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

This Stila waterproof liquid eyeliner is perfect for all-day wear! You can create so many looks, from lightly outlining your eyes to packing on the drama. Plus, Amazon customers love how this eyeliner allows them to get "super smooth, fine lines" with "no smudging or bleeding." Incredible!

Sephora

Glossier Pro Tip

Can I get a little commotion for his vegan liquid eyeliner? It's totally gonna become another beauty staple soon. It's easy to use and has a buildable formula that doesn't waste time drying. Did I mention it's also long-lasting? In the words of my favorite social media sound, "You better get one of these!"

Sephora

Anastasia Beverly Hills Waterproof Matte Liquid Eyeliner

It seems like the top-rated liquid eyeliners have one thing in common: they're waterproof. And this option from Anastasia Beverly Hills is no exception to that! Plus, this one claims to be highly-pigmented — which doesn't seem like a reach if you know how good Anastasia Beverly Hills' products are.

P.S. There's no parabens, phthalates, or mineral oils in it.

Sephora

One/Size by Patrick Starr Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Rounding this list out is this amazingly vegan liquid eyeliner by One/Size! I've already made a case for their setting spray so it doesn't surprise me that this makes other customers happy too. It glides on super smooth and fits comfortably in your hand so you won't experience a classic case of butter fingers when applying it.

It's also free of the following:

  • Parabens
  • Formaldehydes
  • Formaldehyde-releasing agents
  • Phthalates
  • Mineral oil
  • Retinyl palmitate
  • Oxybenzone
  • Coal tar
  • Hydroquinone
  • Triclocarban
  • Triclosan

Follow us on Pinterest for more beauty finds, tips, and tricks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Austin Butler as Elvis, Selena Gomez as Linda Rondstat, and now Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan — there will never be enough biopics for me! (The real question is when are we going to get a Taylor Swift movie?). When pictures from the set of the new Bob Dylan movie, A Complete Unknown, hit Twitter, I had to do a double take because Timothée Chalamet looks so much like the musician I couldn't believe my eyes! You can watch the A Complete Unknown trailer here.

Timothée is going to be joined by Met Gala queen Elle Fanning, as well as Top Gun superstar Monica Barbaro. Here's everything you need to know about the movie — and our favorite Bob Dylan songs to listen to while you wait for its release.

Monica Barbaro Sings Her Heart Out

twitter.com

We got a look at Monica Barbaro as singer-songwriter Joan Baez, who was one of the first major artists in the 1960s to record Bob Dylan's music!

I was super impressed to learn Timothée showed up and sang live for the film. "It was important for me to play and sing on set because it was in the spirit of the movie to do it live," he says in a video from People. "Many of the artists through American pop culture that had the balls to turn their back on what was expected of them, that moment started with Bob. His words are relevant; 'Times They are A Changing' ' is relevant, 'Blowin' in the Wind' is relevant."

Elle Fanning and Timothée Chalamet In "A Complete Unknown"

twitter.com

Elle Fanning totally embodies the late '60s vibe in this fall outfit. The bold maroon blazer, the long straight hair, and the striped turtleneck — I love it all! Elle is starring this Bob Dylan movie as Sylvie Russo, a university student and artist Bob falls for in the '60s.

twitter.com

Thanks to some onset leaks, we also got a glimpse of the movie's version of The Freewheelin'! Elle Fanning and Timothée Chalamet look incredible as Sylvia Russo and Bob Dylan. I'm a sucker for any kind of recreation, so seeing this new version of the classic record cover is incredible!!

The First Pictures From Timothée Chalamet's Bob Dylan Movie

twitter.com

Timothée Chalamet has totally transformed into Bob Dylan on the set of A Complete Unknown. And when I saw the pictures of Timothée carrying the guitar my jaw dropped!! He completely engrossed himself in Wonka and Dune 2 and I'm so excited to see him do the same for this Bob Dylan movie.

What is the movie about Bob Dylan called?

H. Thompson/Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Amy Sussman/Getty Images

A Complete Unknown Plot

Timothée Chalamet's Bob Dylan movie is called A Complete Unknown. The movie filmed around New York City in the spring of 2024, and James Mangold is serving as director (you might recognize his name from Logan, Girl, Interrupted, and Walk the Line). The movie will cover the period during the 1960s when Bob Dylan shifted from folk to rock'n'roll, changing the face of pop culture (and culture in general, TBH), forever.

"When that movie finally comes out, people are going to be shocked because you're going to think you're hearing Bob Dylan sing," vocal coach Eric Vetro tells PEOPLE. "[Timothée Chalamet] just has this uncanny ability to not impersonate, but really breathe life into it. He's embodying Bob Dylan and what he was like at that age."

Who else is in A Complete Unknown with Timothée Chalamet?

Amy Sussman/Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images/Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Gotham Film & Media Institute

A Complete Unknown Cast

The A Complete Unknown cast is incredible! Alongside Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan, we'll see Top Gun: Maverick's Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez, Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo, Edward Norton as Pete Seeger, Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash, and Nick Offerman as Alan Lomax.

When is the Bob Dylan movie coming out?

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

A Complete Unknown Release Date

A Complete Unknown will hit theaters on December 25, 2024. And since Timothée Chalamet has been seen in turtlenecks, hats, and jackets on set, this sounds like the perfect cozy movie to me!

I always need some brand new music to listen to once the weather gets chilly, and I will for sure be listening to anything Timothée records.

What song did Bob Dylan write for a movie?

Christopher Polk/Getty Images for VH1

Bob Dylan wrote "Things Have Changed" for the 2000 movie Wonder Boys, which starred Michael Douglas, Tobey Maguire, and Katie Holmes. This Bob Dylan song ended up winning the Academy Award for Best Original Songand the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song!

"Knockin' On Heaven's Door," which is arguably the singer's most popular track, was released two months after the 1973 premiere of Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid as a part of the film's soundtrack.

What are some other Bob Dylan songs to listen to?

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

I totally agree that one of the best Bob Dylan songs is "Knockin' On Heaven's Door," but "Blowin' In The Wind" and "The Times They Are A-Changin'" are also great songs to listen to if you're a new Bob Dylan fan. So far, "The Times They Are A-Changin'" is my personal favorite song.

His style is the perfect blend of rock and folk that reminds me of summer picnics and walks in the woods. His sound also reportedly inspired Taylor Swift's Folklore!

What are you most excited to see in Timothée Chalamet's Bob Dylan movie A Complete Unknown? Check out our Facebook for more movie news!

This post has been updated.

Aside from Luke's coffee, the most iconic and consistent aspect of Gilmore Girls are Friday Night Dinners. Any GG fan knows the weekly dinner kicks off in the pilot, when Lorelai asks Emily and Richard to help pay for Rory's Chilton tuition. In addition to paying Rory's way through school, Emily also requests the weekly dinners be part of the deal (and while Lorelai assumes it's manipulation, I'm convinced Emily just wants to be in their lives!!).

But despite the fact the Friday Night Dinners are incredibly entertaining, I can't decide whether or not they're realistic for one reason: you're telling me Emily, Rory, and Lorelai had no Friday night plans for seven years straight?!

Warner Bros. Television

After a long week of work or school, Friday is always my night to relax and unwind. They're the night I crave time with friends, whether it be a movie night or going out to eat, or I just simply don't want to leave my apartment. TLDR; I've never had a standing commitment on Fridays. I have to admit I like the flexibility!

"Usually Fridays are for going out with friends and staying out late, and then Saturdays and Sundays are for the family," one Reddit user says of their own experience. "It [especially] rubbed me the wrong way because this may not be an issue with an older person, but Rory is 16 at the start of the show."

Warner Bros. Television

Rory might not have a packed social schedule, but I can't help but wonder if, after driving to Hartford every day for school, she'd rather just curl up on her couch with a book. But considering life in Stars Hollow is pretty chill, maybe it's nice to have some kind of weekly plan, and a change of scenery to boot.

Despite the time commitment, our favorite mother-daughter duo still has no problem maximizing their weekend. "The weirder part was that they had time for Friday night lingering social dinners in a different town and THEN went out on dates," another Reddit user jokes.

Overall, you might have to suspend your disbelief that Lorelai never had Friday night plans (or that she made double the plans — who has the energy?!) but it's one Gilmore Girls tradition we simply couldn't live without.

Warner Bros. Television

Even though Friday Night Dinners start off as an obligation, I firmly believe Lorelai ends up really enjoying them — and the fact they give her the chance to reconnect with her parents. I think she realizes she actually wants to be at the dinners (which is probably as surprising for her as it is for us), whether it be because she was finally replacing unhappy childhood memories with pleasant adult ones, or because she actually had fun going back-and-forth with Emily.

"Emily was the only person in Lorelai’s life who could keep up with her banter in a similar way. She may have channeled that in a different way, but Emily was just as witty as Lorelai," a third Reddit user says, while another agrees, "Oh, she definitely did. I think she always craved an intimate relationship and saw that her daughter could give her that [segue] into their lives."

And there's nothing that brings people closer together than sharing a meal. Pour me a glass of wine Lorelai!!

​Is there a Friday Night Dinner in every episode of Gilmore Girls?

Warner Bros. Television

Out of 153 Gilmore Girls episodes, there are 71 Friday Night Dinners. Meaning there's a dinner for about every two episodes.

​What episode is the chaotic Friday Night Dinner?

Warner Bros. Television

Given how chaotic Lorelai is (and Lorelai and Emily are together), I'm afraid you'll have to be more specific! But one especially chaotic Friday Night Dinner comes in season 6, episode 13, "Friday Night's Alright For Fighting." After Lorelai reveals Christopher is paying Rory's Yale tuition, she attempts to smooth things over by bringing Friday Night Dinners back. And as the title might suggest, things don't exactly go according to plan.

But if Luke, Christopher, or Trix is present for a Friday Night Dinner, you know it's going to be a memorable one.

Still thinking up a Halloween costume? DIY This Epic Gilmore Girls Group Costume for (Stars) Hallow-een!