New ways to holiday

After that first moment of wide-eyed wonder wears off, the lights, the trees and even the Rockettes start to feel like that movie Elf: not as much fun the tenth time around. But it doesn’t have to be that way, Charlie Brown. This year, it’s time we celebrate the holidays differently, from today right through to New Year’s Eve. Look inside for modern twists on traditions, from the New Yorkers who power the Christmas machine themselves, and from those carpetbaggers from The Real World: Brooklyn. Happy holidays, everyone, and here’s to the New Year. May you get your jobs back and then win the lottery so you can quit.

Party of eight»
The cast members of the MTV reality show The Real World: Brooklyn chat about the truuuuuue story behind their four months in Red Hook, and their plans for New Year’s Eve.

Killing with kindness»
This holiday season’s warmest romantic epic, bound to wring tears, comes from…David Fincher.

Fest augmentation»
Shake up your December with naked men and Meow Meow.

Who needs Santa?»
Tired of the usual Xmas onslaught? Test-drive one of these traditions.

Jesus, these are cool!»
We asked local artists and writers to improve upon the standard December drivel. Behold what they have created! Unconventional ornaments, never-before-heard songs and even a few new holidays altogether.

Free spirit»
Try these gratis ways to season yourself.

Screw tradition»
We asked an elf—and a few other guards of the old guard—what new holiday traditions they’d like to see around the city.