NORAD Celebrates 70 Years of Tracking Santa Claus Globally

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has marked a significant milestone, celebrating 70 years of its beloved tradition of tracking Santa Claus as he makes his annual journey around the globe. The initiative, which began in 1955, has become a festive highlight for millions of children and families in the United States and Canada.

A Cherished Tradition Begins

The tradition started accidentally when a local Colorado Springs newspaper misprinted a telephone number for children to call Santa. Instead of reaching the North Pole, the calls went to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor. The duty personnel decided to engage with the children, providing updates on Santa’s movements.

Since then, NORAD has transformed the Santa tracking program into a comprehensive operation featuring real-time updates. Each year, on December 24, families can follow Santa’s journey through a dedicated website and mobile app that includes festive games and activities, enhancing the excitement of the holiday season.

Modern-Day Tracking and Engagement

In recent years, NORAD has leveraged technology to improve the experience for users. With the help of advanced radar and satellite systems, children can see Santa’s location in real time. This year, NORAD plans to continue the tradition with a full slate of activities designed to engage families.

According to Colonel John C. H. Houghton, the commander of NORAD’s Santa Operations, “This is a way to share the joy of the holidays with children and families around the world. We take pride in being part of this magical experience.”

The program has grown beyond mere tracking. It includes social media engagement across platforms, allowing families to share their excitement and follow updates. NORAD Santa has its own presence on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, attracting millions of followers eager to participate in the festivities.

In addition to keeping track of Santa Claus, NORAD volunteers respond to thousands of calls and emails from children. Last year alone, the organization reported receiving over 100,000 inquiries from excited youngsters, eager to learn more about Santa’s journey.

This year, on the night of December 24, 2023, NORAD expects to engage with even more families as the program continues to grow in popularity. With its combination of technology and tradition, NORAD’s Santa tracking initiative embodies the spirit of the holiday season, making it a cherished part of Christmas for many.