The Black Santa Experience Returns to Lansing, Michigan

This event will provide visibility to local Black-owned businesses.

The second annual Black Santa Experience will take place in Lansing, Michigan, on Saturday, November 25 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at The Venue by Eleven 11 Events located at 5660 W Saginaw Hwy.

In celebration of Small Business Saturday, the experience will feature a vendor marketplace where shoppers can purchase gifts from over 25 small Black-owned businesses, including the Socialight Society Bookstore, which features titles that are “predominantly authored by Black women, who often lack representation in traditional bookstores.”

The bookstore will host the Socialight Storytime Stage, an hourly storytime for children, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

According to Lansing.org, the experience was created out of the need for a culturally inclusive holiday party where Black children can see a Santa Claus that represents them.

“Representation matters and The Black Santa Experience is all about creating a magical holiday atmosphere where we celebrate our culture,” cofounder Karla Wagner said in a press release.

The all-day soiree will also host a silent auction in which proceeds will go to purchase gifts for children that will be delivered by Black Santa (George Smithers) on Christmas Eve. Gifts will be delivered on a “sleigh” courtesy of Sundance Chevrolet in Glen Ledge, MI.

With packages starting at $12, families can take photos with Black Santa at the event by booking an appointment.

This family friendly event also has something special for the parents. Adults can enjoy a pop-up lounge hosted by The Comfort Zone cigar lounge. Patrons can experience “a sneak peek into the luxurious ambiance” of the lounge.

The Comfort Zone will also host an after party in which proceeds will benefit the Black Santa Experience.

For more information about the Black Santa Experience or to inquire about donations, sponsorship or vendor opportunities contact Wagner at karla@theblacksantaexperiencetm.com or visit The Blank Santa Experience’s website.