- Event Overview
About
Kalamazoo, MI
Santa Pub Crawls
Kalamazoo’s SantaCon brings Beer City’s bar culture and West Michigan holiday spirit to one of the most craft beer-focused December nights in the Midwest. The Kalamazoo downtown and the Burdick Street bar corridor have developed into one of Michigan’s best bar scenes and when SantaCon arrives the combination of Bell’s Brewery heritage, the Western Michigan Broncos energy, and the excellent local bars creates a holiday celebration with a Kalamazoo character that is warm, creative, and deeply rooted in craft beer culture.
Kalamazoo has been a craft brewing pioneer since Bell’s Brewery opened in 1985 and the SantaCon reflects that tradition of quality and community investment. The Santa costume competition draws on the Western Michigan University community and the creative downtown arts scene and the entries have a Midwest warmth and craft sensibility that is completely Kalamazoo.
December in Kalamazoo is cold, typically ranging from 18 to 28 degrees at night, with lake-effect snow possible from Lake Michigan. The West Michigan winter is real and the downtown bar community offers some of the best craft beer selection in Michigan to accompany the SantaCon route.
Our hosts manage the Kalamazoo route through Burdick Street and the downtown bar district. Specials confirmed at every stop including craft brewery stops, wristbands handle entry, and the Santa competition celebrates Kalamazoo creativity.
Event Details
Everything you need to know about the largest SantaCon pub crawl in Kalamazoo.
Largest Pub Crawl Event
Top SantaCon Bar Crawl in Kalamazoo.
5,000+ Attendees
Thousands join the annual SantaCon pub crawl
15+ Participating Bars
Organized Event
- What's Included
What You Get With a Pub Crawl Ticket
Pub crawls for the biggest party holidays. Choose your event and join the party in 100+ cities across the USA.
Best Santa Contest
Naughty-or-Nice judging all night. The standout Santa wins.
Check-In Drink
Included cocktail or shot waiting for you at the first stop.
Exclusive Drink Deals
SantaCon-negotiated specials active at every bar on the route.
SantaCon Wristband
Your all-access pass for the full evening route.
Dedicated Hosts
Our staff manages check-in, the route, and the costume competition.
VIP Bar Access
Front-of-line entry at select high-demand venues.
Festive Gear Pack
Santa accessories and holiday items at check-in.
Handpicked Route
Bars chosen for their holiday spirit, capacity, and cocktail quality.
Participating Venues on the Pub Crawl Route
Explore the most popular bars and nightlife venues in Kalamazoo during the SantaCon pub crawl. Each participating venue features exclusive drink specials, music, and a unique atmosphere.
How the Pub Crawl Works
Four simple steps to join the SantaCon pub crawl and start bar hopping.
Purchase online at pubcrawls.com before the event.
7:00 PM. Full address sent with your ticket confirmation.
Collect your wristband, welcome drink, and holiday accessories. Route kicks off at 7:30 PM.
Hosts lead the group bar to bar. Stay with the pack for maximum SantaCon energy.
Event Agendas
Your complete SantaCon pub crawl timeline from check-in to after-party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Kalamazoo SantaCon Bar Crawl 2026
What do I wear?
A Santa costume is the theme. Full suit, Santa hat, or creative Santa spin all work.
Where does it start?
Kalamazoo MI. Exact address in your ticket confirmation email.
What's the weather like in December?
Kalamazoo MI in December averages 18 to 28 degrees. Cold West Michigan winter with possible lake-effect snow. Layer under your Santa suit.
What is included?
Welcome drink, wristband, drink specials at every stop, holiday accessories, and the costume contest.
Is there a group option?
Groups of ten or more receive priority entry. Contact pubcrawls.com for group packages.
Age requirement?
21 and over. Valid photo ID required at check-in.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Subject to availability. Advance purchase strongly recommended.
How many bars are on the route?
Typically four to six stops. Full route details in your confirmation.
