NORAD is Ready to Track Santa Claus on His Global Journey for the 69th Year

NORAD is Ready to Track Santa Claus on His Global Journey for the 69th Year

For over six decades, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has brought joy to millions by tracking Santa Claus and his reindeer on Christmas Eve. This cherished holiday tradition began as a happy accident in 1955 and has since evolved into a globally celebrated event.

How to Track Santa Claus with NORAD

On Christmas Eve, NORAD activates its Santa tracking system at 6 a.m. ET, allowing children and families to follow Santa’s magical journey. The service is accessible through multiple platforms, including:

1. Official NORAD Website: Visit NORAD’s dedicated Santa tracking site for real-time updates.
2. NORAD Tracks Santa App: Download the app for an interactive experience.
3. Phone: Call 1-877-HI-NORAD (1-877-446-6723) to speak with volunteers about Santa’s progress.
4. Social Media: Follow NORAD Tracks Santa on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
5. Amazon Alexa and OnStar: Ask Alexa or OnStar for Santa’s location.
6. SiriusXM: Tune in for updates on Santa’s route.

The Origins of NORAD’s Santa Tracking Tradition

The tradition began in 1955 due to a printing error in a local newspaper advertisement. The ad encouraged children to call Santa directly but mistakenly listed the phone number for the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center in Colorado Springs.

When a young child called, Air Force Col. Harry Shoup, who answered the phone, quickly realized the mistake. Instead of turning the child away, he reassured them that he was Santa Claus. Shoup’s kindness led to more calls, prompting him to assign officers to respond.

In 1958, when NORAD replaced CONAD, the tradition carried on, eventually becoming a beloved annual event.

Why NORAD’s Santa Tracker is Special

NORAD’s Santa tracking program isn’t just about technology—it’s a heartwarming way to bring families together during the holiday season.

• Global Participation: Millions of visitors from around the world tune in each year to track Santa.
• Volunteers in Action: Over 130,000 calls are answered by volunteers annually, ensuring children’s questions and excitement are met with holiday cheer.
• Innovation and Accessibility: NORAD continuously integrates new technology, such as apps and smart home devices, to make Santa tracking more engaging and interactive.

What to Expect While Tracking Santa

As Santa’s sleigh departs the North Pole, NORAD’s advanced radar, satellites, and fighter jets track his movements.

• Santa’s Route: He follows a path across the globe, delivering presents to children in every time zone.
• Real-Time Updates: The Santa Tracker provides live updates on his location, along with details about the cities he visits.
• Fun Extras: The NORAD site also features games, holiday music, and educational content about the history of Santa tracking.

The Magic Behind the Technology

While NORAD’s primary mission is defending the skies over the U.S. and Canada, its Santa tracking system is a lighter use of its cutting-edge technology.

• Radar: Tracks Santa’s departure from the North Pole.
• Satellites: Use infrared sensors to detect Rudolph’s glowing red nose.
• Fighter Jets: Occasionally escort Santa as he enters North American airspace.

A Tradition That Spans Generations

The NORAD Tracks Santa program has become a treasured holiday tradition for families worldwide. It combines the spirit of Christmas with the wonder of technology, inspiring children and adults alike.

Whether it’s a child eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival or a parent reminiscing about their own childhood memories of tracking Santa, the program continues to spread joy and foster connections during the holiday season.

NORAD’s Santa Tracker is more than just a tool to locate Santa—it’s a symbol of kindness, imagination, and holiday magic. From its humble beginnings as a misprinted phone number to becoming a global phenomenon, this tradition reminds us of the joy that simple gestures can bring.

So, gather your family, download the app, or call 1-877-HI-NORAD to join millions in celebrating the magic of Christmas Eve. After all, tracking Santa has become as much a part of the holidays as leaving cookies and milk for Old Saint Nick.