A Crew of Krampus Will Take Over a Michigan Town This Weekend

Move over, Santa Claus and the Elf on a Shelf, there's a different and more sinister-looking Christmas icon taking over the streets of a Michigan town this weekend.

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What or Who is a Krampus?

Have you ever heard of Krampus? While he's been a part of holiday traditions in Europe for centuries, he didn't really gain popularity in America until recent years. Krampus is, essentially, the bad cop to Santa's good cop. Santa rewards the good children, while the purpose of the Krampus is to punish the naughty ones.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to West Michigan Bars That Go All-Out For Christmas

And, well, he's kind of terrifying...

Krampusnacht Returns to Lansing December 6 With a Parade and More!

But even terrifying creatures deserve love, and that's why things like the upcoming Krampusnacht (Krampus Night) in Lansing's Old Town exist!

This year's festivities will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Turner Street in Lansing's Old Town neighborhood. As a bonus, it's completely free to attend!

What to Expect at Krampusnacht in Lansing

This year's Krampusnacht will not only feature the Krampus parade, but also fire performers, live music, "spooky delights", the Misfit Vendors Market, photo opps with Krampus, food and drink specials at bars and restaurants in the area, games, kid's activities, and, of course, a whole lot of Krampusse (which I just learned is the plural of "Krampus").