In the season premiere episode, the members of New Directions compete amongst themselves to become the next star of the glee club. During open auditions, a fresh crop of students is introduced, including Marley and Jake Puckerman, Puck's half-brother. Meanwhile, Rachel has a rocky start at NYADA and struggles to please her demanding dance teacher, Cassandra July. She also meets Brody, a handsome upperclassman.

Brittany hopes the music of Britney Spears will get her out of a funk; a new friend helps Rachel adjust to life in New York.

A love triangle heats up among Marley, Jake and Ryder, and Blaine has a run-in with the Warblers.

A tribute to the film "Love, Actually" with different storylines all dealing with the holidays. Sam and Brittany live as if it's the end of the world as the Mayans know it. The Puckermans, including half-brothers Puck and Jake and their mothers, come together for Hanukkah. Artie has an epiphany through a dream sequence. Kurt has an unforgettable Christmas.