Phoenix, Arizona — Families driving past a long-running Christmas tree lot in Phoenix were met with an unexpected sight this week: the towering inflatable Santa that usually welcomes visitors was gone. Overnight, thieves made off with the 40-foot-tall, 20-foot-wide inflatable Santa Claus from Kraemer’s Tree Lot, a family-owned business that has served the community for decades.
The theft happened between Saturday night and Sunday morning at Kraemer’s seasonal location, where the family has sold Christmas trees for 25 years. The massive Santa, a familiar landmark during the holidays, had stood watch over the lot for more than three decades, becoming a favorite backdrop for family photos.
How the theft unfolded
According to family members, the thieves didn’t just wander in. They cut through the fence surrounding the property to access the oversized decoration. Kyle Kraemer told local media that markings on the gravel suggested the Santa was deflated on site and dragged out, a task that would have required planning and manpower.
“People know it is Santa’s tree lot,” Kraemer said. “Who steals Santa? I mean, it’s Christmas time.”
The size of the inflatable makes the theft especially puzzling. Even staff members struggled to set it up at the start of the season, raising questions about how many people were involved and how they managed to move such a large item without being noticed.
A holiday tradition taken away
For the Kraemer family, the loss goes beyond a stolen decoration. The Santa has been a key part of the lot’s identity and a symbol of the holiday spirit they try to create for visitors each year.
“This one hurts. Our giant inflatable Santa was stolen from our tree lot,” the family wrote in a Facebook post. “He’s part of what makes the season special for families who visit us.”
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Over the years, countless customers have stopped to take photos with the oversized St. Nick, turning a simple tree purchase into a cherished holiday memory. Many in the community recognize the Santa instantly, which makes the theft all the more brazen.
Community reaction and questions
News of the stolen Santa spread quickly online, with locals expressing disbelief and frustration. Some questioned what the thieves could possibly do with such a recognizable decoration, while others hoped the attention would pressure those responsible to return it.
“It’d take a lot of people,” Kraemer said. “Our four guys — they had trouble putting it up.”
The distinct size and appearance of the inflatable make it difficult to hide or resell, especially in a city where the tree lot has been a seasonal fixture for decades.
Police investigation underway
Phoenix police are investigating the incident, though details remain limited. Officers are working to determine who may be responsible and whether any surveillance footage from nearby businesses captured the theft.
For now, the family is asking anyone with information to come forward, hoping that the community’s familiarity with the Santa will help lead to its recovery.
More than just a decoration
While thefts during the holiday season aren’t uncommon, this case has struck a nerve because of what the Santa represents. For many families, the tree lot signals the start of Christmas traditions — picking out a tree, snapping photos, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Losing such a central piece of that experience has been a blow, not just to the Kraemers but to customers who return year after year.
As the investigation continues, the family remains hopeful that the unusual nature of the theft will work in their favor and that Santa will make his way back home before Christmas.
What do you think happened to the giant Santa — and will it be returned? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
