The Christmas tradition of tracking Santa Claus as he travels around the world delivering presents has become a global phenomenon. Children from all corners of the globe eagerly follow Santa’s journey, either by calling into the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) or by tracking him online in multiple languages.
On Christmas Eve, NORAD volunteers in Colorado Springs field questions from excited kids, such as “When will Santa come to my house?” and “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” The joy and laughter that fill the room during these calls are heartwarming.
The tradition of tracking Santa dates back to the Cold War era, originating from a child’s accidental phone call to the Continental Air Defense Command in 1955. Since then, NORAD has been diligently tracking Santa’s movements every Christmas Eve, even during government shutdowns.
This unique tradition, rooted in a mix-up with a Sears advertisement, has endured for decades, captivating children and adults alike. Despite some skepticism surrounding the origin story, the magic of NORAD’s Santa Tracker continues to bring joy and excitement to the holiday season.
NORAD’s technological approach to tracking Santa, using radars and satellite systems, adds a modern twist to the centuries-old story of Santa Claus. The organization’s app and website provide real-time updates on Santa’s whereabouts, allowing people to follow his journey throughout the night.
Whether it’s through phone calls, online tracking, or satellite systems, the NORAD Santa Tracker remains a beloved tradition that brings a touch of magic to Christmas Eve for people of all ages.
