The school musical West Side Story is readied for performance, with Artie as lead director. Finn meets with a football recruiter, whom Coach Beiste gains as an admirer. Kurt and Blaine reach a new, physical stage in their relationship, as do Rachel and Finn in theirs.

In an attempt to recruit a few more members, Finn tracks down former teammate Sam Evans and convinces him to come back to the glee club. Tina comes to the defense of Harry and encourages him to pursue his dream while McKinley prepares to host the big sectionals performance.

The glee club pays homage to a true icon when they cover Whitney Houston's greatest hits. Meanwhile, Emma and Will are one step closer to their dream wedding.

McKinley’s Sadie Hawkins dance offers several gleeks a rare chance to feel empowered. Sam and Blaine investigate a possible cheating scandal at Sectionals. Kurt makes a new friend at NYADA.

When Mr. Schuester comes up with the setlist for regionals, the New Directions are not pleased, Rachel sings an unexpected song for her "Funny Girl audition", and Marley writes an original song.

Sue Sylvester introduces the episode as a Christmas special that FOX did not allow to air from last year. The members of New Directions audition for roles in McKinley's living Nativity Scene. Meanwhile in New York, Rachel, Kurt and Santana work as Santa's elves at a mall.

The members of New Directions are busy at work planning, planning and planning, while Sue encourages everyone to follow their hearts.