In her efforts to save Julien from a vicious smear campaign, Zoya puts her own future at risk. Kate and Jordan hatch a last-ditch plan to reclaim Gossip Girl. Audrey and Aki rope an increasingly resentful Max into both of their schemes.

As the crew heads upstate for their annual New Year's bash, Julien holds tight to tradition despite everything changing around her. Meanwhile, Zoya questions her place in her sister's group – and Kate questions the future of Gossip Girl.