The iconic Sugar House Santa Shack, a fixture of family Christmas traditions for eight decades, is once again searching for a permanent home after the S‑Line expansion displaced it from its longtime parking‑lot spot off Highland Drive.
Relocation setbacks and a possible return
Owner and photographer Laurie Bray told FOX 13 News in October that the shack, which stands nearly 18 feet tall, had to be removed when construction tied to the light‑rail project began. The removal left the community wondering where the beloved holiday landmark would appear this year.
Bray now says there is “a possibility” the shack could move back to Monument Plaza, located near 2100 South and across from Barnes & Noble. The plaza’s original architectural plans included a designated space for the Santa Shack, and several businesses on the site have expressed interest in seeing it return.
Mayor’s office involvement
“I have a couple great people in the city who are helping me, and they’ve reached out to the mayor’s office,” Bray explained. She is awaiting a longer‑term permit from the mayor’s office that would allow the structure to be placed on the plaza without extensive modifications.
The permit process is expected to be straightforward because the move would not require the shack to travel far, but the city must still approve the placement to ensure compliance with zoning and safety regulations.
Community support and family memories
Local residents have voiced strong support for the Santa Shack’s return. Longtime visitor Kent Jackson recalled growing up watching the shack and said, “I’ve loved to go by ever since I was a little boy.” His wife Wendy and their children also shared how much the landmark means to their family’s holiday celebrations.
Bray noted that the community has offered numerous ideas and suggestions via social media since she first announced the search for a new location. She hopes to hear back from the mayor’s office within the coming week so that volunteers can begin the relocation and decoration process in time for the holiday season.
Why the Santa Shack matters
Beyond its festive appeal, the Santa Shack serves as a multigenerational gathering point where families create lasting memories. Bray emphasized, “Absolutely. I think a lot of people would be very sad if we were not.” The structure’s potential return to Monument Plaza would keep the tradition alive in the heart of Sugar House, reinforcing the neighborhood’s sense of community and continuity.
Salt Lake City officials have not yet issued a formal response, but the ongoing dialogue between Bray, local businesses, and the mayor’s office reflects a collaborative effort to preserve a cherished piece of the city’s cultural heritage.
Original reporting: FOX 13 KSTU (Scripps) – Salt Lake City — read the source article.
