A US satanic temple is planning a "snaketivity" to rival a Christmas Nativity display.

The Satanic Temple of Detroit has applied for permission to display its particular interpretation of Christmas.

The application is in response to an application by supporters of Ted Cruz to show a more traditional Nativity scene at Michigan Capitol lawn.

Jex Blackmore, of the temple, said the overriding theme were of plurality and religious liberty. "We have no interest in proselytising Satanism to the public. However, we refuse to allow one religious perspective do dominate the discourse. For that reason, when there is one religious display on public grounds, we'll offer another, and we urge other minority voices to do the same."

The temple is still awaiting approval from the Michigan State Capitol Commission for the display. It has offered guidance to other religious groups to set up their own religious displays on the lawn.

The temple is not in fact a devil-worshipping organisation, but is an advocate of religious liberty.

Wendy Day, Michigan state director for the Cruz campaign, said in a statement: "Freedom of speech may be inconvenient, messy and at times offensive, but that is the cost of living in a free country. America was founded on the principles of free speech and freedom of religion. We don't have to agree on religious principles to stand together for the right of free speech."

The snaketivity display consists of a snake wrapped around a satanic cross. 

Meanwhile, Mike Callton, a Republican from Nashville, is sponsoring a Chanukah display.