The tradition of tracking Santa Claus has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, with children around the globe eagerly following Santa’s journey as he delivers gifts on Christmas Eve. Each year, over 100,000 kids call the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) to ask about Santa’s whereabouts, while millions more monitor his progress online in multiple languages, including English and Japanese.
While NORAD typically focuses on national security and detecting potential threats, Christmas Eve brings a festive change. Volunteers at NORAD’s Colorado Springs office field questions from children such as “When will Santa arrive at my house?” and “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” Bob Sommers, a NORAD volunteer, described the joyful atmosphere, filled with “screams and giggles.” He often reminds callers that they must be asleep for Santa to arrive, which prompts parents to usher their kids off to bed.
The unique tradition began in 1955 with a child’s mistaken phone call to NORAD after a Sears advertisement invited children to call Santa using a specific phone number. Air Force Colonel Harry W. Shoup humorously embraced the unexpected situation, responding to the boy’s inquiries in a cheerful Santa voice. This interaction sparked something special, leading to a flood of calls and the legacy of NORAD tracking Santa each year.
Despite some skepticism around the exact origin of the calls, the joy and excitement surrounding NORAD’s Santa tracking have persisted, even through government shutdowns. In an age where many modern adaptations of Santa are commercialized, NORAD’s tradition remains heartfelt and rooted in holiday spirit.
Current technology allows NORAD to track Santa using advanced radar systems, starting in Alaska and Canada, as he travels westward following the night. The effort even incorporates fun facts, such as how Rudolph’s glowing red nose is detectable due to the heat it emits.
For those wishing to follow Santa’s journey this year, NORAD offers an app and a dedicated website, allowing families to engage in this beloved holiday tradition. Live operators are available for questions from 6 a.m. to midnight mountain time, further enhancing the interactive experience for children.
In summary, NORAD’s Santa tracking is a delightful melding of tradition and modernity, bringing joy and a sense of connection during the festive season. As this cherished tradition continues, it serves as a reminder of the magic of Christmas that transcends age and geography, making it a light in the world during the holiday season.