With the holidays approaching, one unconventional way to get out and celebrate is to attend a concert. This month’s local concert calendar holds a variety of music styles, ranging from pop icons such as Drake, R&B artists like KEM, and the annual country music jingle fest. The following are just a select few ideas of many, not including local music venues such as Cicero’s, Fubar, the Firebird, and the Wolf that support independent artists from around the area. The best way to experience genuine, exciting music is going to support local musicians: an action much appreciated by venues and musicians themselves.

The Pageant on the Delmar Loop and Pop’s are hosting 105.7 the Point’s “Ho Ho Shows,” showcasing up-and-coming alternative artists in medium-sized venues. The concert series kicked off on Dec. 7, with Blue October, a Texas-based alternative band led by Justin Furstenfeld. The next show is Dec. 10 Alt-J and Grouplove, which sold out days after the tickets were released. Other noteworthy shows include 30 Seconds to Mars with Twenty One Pilots Dec. 12, Phoenix with Bastille Dec. 13, and Cage the Elephant with FOALS, which still has tickets on sale. The other shows available are Stone Temple Pilots with Chester Bennington on Dec. 11 and Switchfoot and Sick Puppies with Fivefold. A fan of alternative or not, you should try to get out to at least one of these shows.

Pop artists Drake, Miguel and rap artist Future, come to the Scottrade Center on Dec. 11. Tickets are still available, with a multi-hit artist headlining the concert, this concert is not one to miss. Hit songs that will be performed on include “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” and “Started From the Bottom,” in just this year. On Dec. 14, artist Beyonce will be starring in “The Mrs. Carter World tour,” also at the Scottrade Center.

The country radio station 92.3 will host the 11th annual “Jinglefest,” a two day Country Music festival at the St. Charles Family Arena. The headlining artists include Thomas Rhett, Dustin Lynch and Jana Kramer.

Other minor highlights of the Christmas season include the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, which will be featured at the Scottrade Center Dec. 24, Kenny Rogers at the Family Arena Dec. 11, Martina McBride at the Fox Theatre Dec. 13 and No Straight Chaser at the Fox Theater.