December 23, 2025 –For decades, children and families around the country have relied on one of the most magical holiday traditions: tracking Santa Claus as he delivers presents on Christmas Eve. This unique experience is made possible each year by NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, which monitors Santa’s journey in real time.
The tradition dates back to 1955, when reportedly, a misprinted advertisement in a Colorado Springs newspaper listed the phone number for children to call Santa. The number actually connected to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) operations hotline. Rather than disappoint curious children, Colonel Harry Shoup instructed his staff to provide updates on Santa’s location, and a beloved tradition was born. When NORAD replaced CONAD in 1958, the command continued the practice, and the “NORAD Tracks Santa” program became an annual event.
Today, NORAD provides updates on Santa’s location using radar, satellites, and jet fighters, combined with a dedicated website and social media channels. Families can watch his progress across the globe on Christmas Eve, beginning with his departure from the North Pole and following him through different countries as he delivers presents. The program also features fun facts, holiday games, and opportunities for children to connect with Santa online.
NORAD encourages families to participate safely from home, following updates through the official website at www.noradsanta.org. In addition to providing a magical experience for children, the program also highlights NORAD’s mission and engages the community in festive learning about aerospace operations and technology.
