In the season of traditions, O'ahu has a few holiday twists. Like Tommy D, a Roy Orbison impersonator who toured for eight years with Paul Revere and the Raiders, and who makes his debut as a Christian singer on Christmas Eve at a Makiki church.

"Back in September, I was going through a dark period in my life," he said. "... I wasn't happy. Something was missing."

Admiring a $1,500 Pineapple Sunday 'ukulele of renowned manufacturer Alvin Okami, he was told he could have it if he'd "do songs for Jesus," the singer said. "In three months, I wrote 78 songs."

Other unusual happenings around town: A nationally known gospel singer in concert. Nativity scenes with live animals and narration by Sidney Poitier. Even something for the homeless and for the blue.

While there isn't enough room to list all the ways Christians are celebrating Jesus' birth, here are other ways to enjoy the holidays. Give a nod to all the churches hauling out extra seats (as when Bishop Larry Silva celebrates midnight Mass at the Co-Cathedral of St. Theresa), but also take a moment to gather together to get into a new kind of yule spirit. Unless noted, events are free. Donations may be accepted, and seating may be limited.