As the holiday season approaches, children everywhere are reminded that Santa Claus is on his way, and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is ready to track his journey around the globe. This year, NORAD has once again activated its popular Santa tracker, which monitors Santa’s movements as he embarks on his annual festive journey, starting from the North Pole, making his first stop in Finland.
Based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, NORAD offers a dedicated service through its website noradsanta.org, along with social media and a mobile app, allowing families and kids to follow Santa’s travels in real-time. As part of this cherished tradition, approximately 150 to 160 volunteers gather at Peterson Air Force Base, where they participate in two-hour shifts to answer phone calls from excited children wanting to know when Santa will arrive at their homes.
Families can reach out to NORAD by calling the special toll-free number, 1-877-Hi-NORAD (1-877-446-6723). Some lucky callers may even get the chance to talk to a military member or volunteer, and occasionally, the president has even answered the calls! For those who can’t connect directly, recorded updates on Santa’s location are readily available.
This heartwarming initiative by NORAD not only brings joy to children but also reinforces the spirit of giving and holiday cheer, showcasing a wonderful blend of community involvement and festive joy. Parents and guardians can share in the excitement with their children, fostering memorable holiday experiences that blend tradition with modern technology.