Find Santa: NORAD Tracks Santa's Christmas Eve Journey
Christmas Eve is a magical time, filled with anticipation and wonder. For millions worldwide, a key part of that magic is tracking Santa Claus's journey around the globe. And for over 60 years, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has been making that magic a reality with its iconic NORAD Tracks Santa program. This year, join the fun and learn how to use this fantastic resource to follow Santa's Christmas Eve flight!
What is NORAD Tracks Santa?
NORAD Tracks Santa is an annual Christmas tradition that allows children (and adults!) to follow Santa Claus's journey around the world on Christmas Eve. This free, interactive website and app use cutting-edge technology to track Santa's progress, showing his current location on a global map. It's a fun, engaging experience that brings the wonder of Christmas to life.
How to Track Santa with NORAD
Tracking Santa with NORAD is incredibly easy. Here's how you can join the fun:
1. Visit the Official Website
The best way to track Santa is by visiting the official NORAD Tracks Santa website. The site is typically launched several weeks before Christmas, offering interactive games, videos, and countdown timers to build the excitement.
2. Use the NORAD Tracks Santa App
For mobile users, the NORAD Tracks Santa app is available on both iOS and Android devices. This app offers the same tracking capabilities as the website, with the added convenience of mobile access.
3. Track Santa's Journey
Once the tracking begins on Christmas Eve, simply click or tap on the map to see Santa's current location. The site and app often provide additional information, such as Santa's current speed, altitude, and next destination.
4. Enjoy the Interactive Features
Beyond tracking Santa's location, the NORAD Tracks Santa website and app often include interactive games, videos featuring Santa's helpers, and festive music to enhance the experience. These features make it a fun and engaging activity for the whole family.
The History of NORAD Tracks Santa
The NORAD Tracks Santa tradition began in 1955 with a slightly different story. A local newspaper advertisement mistakenly listed a phone number for children to call Santa. However, the number was actually a hotline for the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), the predecessor to NORAD. A quick-thinking Colonel answered the calls, setting the stage for a long-standing holiday tradition.
Why NORAD Tracks Santa Remains a Popular Tradition
The enduring popularity of NORAD Tracks Santa stems from its unique blend of technology, tradition, and holiday magic. It's a free resource that appeals to people of all ages, offering a fun and interactive way to celebrate Christmas Eve. The combination of cutting-edge technology and the classic Christmas narrative creates a memorable and engaging experience.
Beyond the Tracking: The Magic of Christmas
While the technology is impressive, the true magic of NORAD Tracks Santa lies in its ability to connect people worldwide through a shared experience. It fosters a sense of wonder and excitement, reminding us of the spirit of giving and the joy of the holiday season. This simple act of tracking Santa brings families together, creating lasting memories and strengthening holiday traditions.
In Conclusion: NORAD Tracks Santa is more than just a website or an app; it's a beloved Christmas tradition that uses technology to deliver a heartwarming and engaging experience. So, this Christmas Eve, join millions worldwide and track Santa's journey with NORAD! It's a fantastic way to share the magic of Christmas with family and friends.