NORAD’s annual Santa Tracker is set to return for its 69th year, allowing families to follow Santa Claus as he makes his global gift deliveries on Christmas Eve. The festivities commence at 4 a.m. EST and continue until the magical night concludes. Parents can engage their children by calling the NORAD hotline at 1-877-HI-NORAD for live updates on Santa’s location.
On Christmas Eve, LiveNOW from FOX will enhance the holiday spirit by hosting a three-hour special, “Track Santa Now,” starting at 9 p.m. EST. Viewers can look forward to interviews with NORAD officials, festive updates, and a live tracker showcasing Santa and his reindeer during their journey. The program will also be accessible via the FOX Local app on mobile devices and smart TVs.
This year, the LiveNOW special promises exciting additions, including live messages from Santa himself as he travels. Fans can also expect a guest appearance from a character known to have a heart “two sizes too small,” as well as features highlighting festive locations like a poinsettia farm and festive decorations in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.
While NORAD tracks Santa, it’s important to note that he adjusts his schedule based on whether children are asleep. Generally, Santa is expected to deliver presents between 9 p.m. and midnight on Christmas Eve, but he won’t stop at homes with awake children.
The tradition of NORAD tracking Santa began in 1955 when a child mistakenly dialed the command center instead of Santa. Since then, NORAD has taken on this whimsical mission every Christmas Eve, functioning alongside its primary role of monitoring air traffic across North America.
For those looking to engage further, the NORAD Tracks Santa website offers a plethora of activities, including games, music, and a holiday countdown, available in multiple languages. The official NORAD Tracks Santa app can also be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play, and the tracker is accessible on social media platforms and digital assistants.
As the holiday season approaches, the NORAD Santa Tracker continues to bring joy and excitement to families worldwide, fostering a sense of wonder and cheer that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
This heartwarming tradition not only entertains but also connects families, reinforcing the spirit of giving, kindness, and togetherness during this magical time of year.