The Fight (Season 3, Episode 13)

From a purely comedic standpoint, it’s hard to pick an episode that’s funnier, more quotable, or GIF-worthy than “The Fight.” Caffeine and liquor are a great excuse to write characters at their silliest, and luckily, Tom’s Snake Juice liqueur proves a potent blend of both. The talking head montage of a wasted Parks department might be the single wackiest individual showcase for the show’s cast, whether it’s Andy mumble-jamming what sounds like a Matchbox 20 tune, or Ron cutting loose while wearing the hat of April’s alter-ego, Janet Snakehole. But the script from Amy Poehler also makes “The Fight” one of Parks’ most important looks at Leslie’s relationship with Ann, which was in many ways the most important of the series. Ann had long been the hardest character to integrate into each week’s antics, so having her join the Parks department was inevitable. But the titular fight caused by Leslie bulldozing Ann into taking the job insightfully explores how conflicting personalities can be a source of stress in a friendship, but also an invaluable catalyst for change and self-improvement. Also, did I mention Ron dancing?