An Enduring Tradition for Christmas

As midnight approaches on December 25th, one time zone after another gets a visit from Santa Claus. This much-loved tradition is visually represented through the Santa tracker run by NORAD, the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

Starting on Christmas Eve, the tracker shows Santa Claus zig-zagging south from the North Pole and back north to cover the world with gifts in a 24-hour period.

The path travels from east to west as night falls in various parts of the globe. NORAD’s Santa Tracker, now nearing its 70th anniversary, started due to a misdialed phone number that opened the door to a charming tradition.

The Origin of the Santa Tracker

In 1955, a misprinted advertisement in a Colorado Springs newspaper for a local Sears department store incorrectly listed a phone number for kids to call Santa. A young boy called and reached a facility for NORAD’s predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD). Colonel Harry W. Shoup answered the call and, realizing the mix-up, decided to respond playfully.

Soon, the calls kept coming, and the idea to track Santa was born. A caricature of Santa was drawn on a glass map, and the tradition continued to grow.

Modern Tracking and Celebration

Over the years, NORAD has evolved its Santa tracking into a widespread event, with over 100,000 phone calls received yearly. This experience is enriched by volunteers enthusiastic about keeping the festive spirit alive.

During this season, people can call 1-877-HI-NORAD or visit the NORAD Santa Tracker website to get live updates on Santa’s whereabouts. From explaining the festive lore to sharing early morning happiness, volunteers elevate the experience for countless families, filling their hearts with joy.