Mer to perform at Cubby Bear North

Suburban singer-songwriter Mer, who specializes in infectious guitar-driven pop, takes the stage at the Cubby Bear this weekend.

Mer will perform at 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, at Cubby Bear North, 21661 N. Milwaukee, Lincolnshire. $5. Go to cubbynorth.com.

Rock for a cause

Chicago indie record label Window Licker Records will spotlight a slew of its local ska bands (The Invaders, The Takeouts, Dropped Once, Shortstop from Tokyo) at a special show in the suburbs that will benefit St. Louis Children's Hospital.

7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, at the Clearwater Theater, 96 W. Main St., West Dundee. For ticket information, call (847) 836-8820.

Rockin' country bash

Every year, Chicago artist Heather McAdams creates a “Country Calendar” each month features McAdams' charming drawings of country and rock artists for the venerable Fitzgerald's Nightclub in Berwyn. Then she sells it at the club during a huge Christmas bash that includes vintage videos of classic country stars and live performances from some of the best Chicago-area musicians. This year's lineup includes such local luminaries as Robbie Fulks, Nora O'Connor, Jon Langford, Kelly Hogan and many more. If you're looking for some down-home holiday fun, it won't get any better than the Country Calendar Christmas Show.

9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at Fitzgerald's Nightclub, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn. $20. Go to fitzgeraldsnightclub.com.