Dave Nuttall

“Dave Nuttall has lived in the Herriman and Riverton area for over 23 years, and during that time, he’s become somewhat of a local legend thanks to his unique holiday tradition. Since 2019, Dave has taken to the streets dressed as Cousin Eddie, the unforgettable character from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. In true Cousin Eddie fashion, Dave dons a scandalously short bathrobe and often drags a sewer hose behind him as he walks along 13400 South, waving at passing cars and shouting “Merry Christmas!” It’s a scene right out of the movie, and the joy he brings to residents is hard to miss. What started as a Halloween work costume quickly evolved into a yearly tradition aimed at spreading cheer and laughter throughout the community.

In his day-to-day life, Dave has spent over 20 years as a Human Resources professional. The job can be stressful and demanding, but he’s found a way to balance the seriousness of his work with his love for comedy and bringing joy to others. His Cousin Eddie tradition began in 2019 when he recreated the costume for a Halloween event at work. The response from his coworkers was overwhelmingly positive, and it sparked an idea. As that year’s holiday season approached, Dave decided to surprise the community by taking his Cousin Eddie act to the streets of Herriman. Despite the freezing weather, the response was incredible. Drivers honked, waved, and laughed, creating a sense of joy that Dave knew he wanted to repeat.

The following year, 2020, was difficult for everyone due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By the time December rolled around, the sense of isolation and stress weighed heavily on the community. Laughter seemed in short supply, and Dave knew that his Cousin Eddie routine could help. That year, he took to the streets once again, even more determined to spread some much-needed holiday cheer. The familiar sight of Cousin Eddie—complete with bathrobe, hat, and sewer hose—became a bright spot in an otherwise challenging year. For Dave, seeing the smiles, waves, and hearing the honks from passing cars made it all worthwhile. It became clear that his simple act of spreading laughter was as much fun for the community as it was for him.

But the fun doesn’t stop with his holiday street performances. Over the years, Cousin Eddie has shown up in the most unexpected places, from local fitness centers to Solitude Ski Resort. He’s even made an appearance at a few parades, much to the delight of onlookers. Dave never tires of the smiles and laughter his alter ego brings, and the joy he feels in making someone’s day is why he keeps doing it, year after year.

Despite the cold weather and occasional confused looks from those who don’t get the movie reference, Dave finds joy in every honk and wave he receives. He even gets a kick out of the curious responses from local law enforcement, who occasionally check in on the bathrobe-clad “Cousin Eddie” wandering the streets. Dave laughs it off and keeps his focus on what’s most important—spreading a little bit of joy, one wave at a time.

As for the future, Dave plans to keep Cousin Eddie alive and well in Herriman and Riverton. Whether it’s popping up at a random party, bowling alley, or just strolling down the street, you never quite know where Cousin Eddie might appear next. But one thing is certain: if you see him, make sure to honk, wave, and smile—because that’s exactly why he’s there.”