This past weekend, I was chatting with a soon-to-be-imported Detroiter (from beautiful Colorado, can you believe it?), and we were comparing local legends and monsters. While they have the impressive Alferd Packer, we have the Nain Rouge. "A group of locals have started throwing a Nain Rouge parade," I told him, "similar to Krampus festivals, although we do that too. ...Lots of bored artists in Detroit." Just the sorts of things I love most about Detroit.
He won't be here in time for la Marche due Nain Rouge, but I bet you will be. Check 'em out, and "do not come as you are. Come as you once were or yet could be."
Marche du Nain Rouge
Sunday, March 20
Cass Corridor
Gathering at 1 o'clock at the Third Street Bar
Come purge the bad and rejoice the beginning of spring.
Over 300 year ago, around the same time the city of Detroit was founded, an evil was discovered in and around the city. An evil that has plagued the people and the city, and even wrecked havoc upon the founder of Detroit, Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac. This ‘evil’ was said to have been a Nain Rouge, other wise known as the “red dwarf of Detroit.” This malevolent spirit cursed generations and brought ill tidings for many Detroiters. It wasn’t until La Marche du Nain Rouge, held the Saturday closest to the vernal (spring) Equinox, did the people of Detroit come together to abolish the Le Nain Rouge — until his fearful return the following the winter Solstice.