Full Breakdown
NORAD Celebrates 70 Years of Tracking Santa Claus
12/3/2025, 6:30:07 AM
Overview of the NORAD Santa Tracker Program
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is set to launch its annual Santa tracking program on December 1, 2025, marking the 70th anniversary of this beloved holiday tradition. Each year, NORAD transitions from its primary role of monitoring and defending North American airspace to tracking Santa Claus as he delivers presents worldwide on Christmas Eve. The NORAD Tracks Santa website (www.noradsanta.org) will feature a variety of interactive content, including games, a holiday countdown, and Santa’s North Pole Village, available in nine languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Chinese, and Korean.
Key Features of the Tracking Program
On December 24, families can call 1-877-HI-NORAD from 4 a.m. to midnight MST to receive live updates on Santa's location from NORAD operators. For children without phone access, a new web-based calling option will allow them to connect directly through the NORAD website. Additionally, virtual translation services will support over 200 languages via the call center. After midnight MST, while live operators will sign off, users can continue to track Santa's journey until 3 a.m. on December 25 through NORAD’s Interactive Voice Response system or the website.
The NORAD Tracks Santa app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, allows users to count down the days until Santa's arrival. The program will also be active on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, as well as on Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and OnStar.
Official Statements & Responses
NORAD expressed its enthusiasm for the upcoming season, stating, “NORAD is excited to kick off our 70th year tracking Santa, a tradition built on goodwill, binational teamwork, and holiday magic.” This sentiment reflects the organization's commitment to providing a joyful experience for families during the holiday season.
Criticism & Opposition
While the NORAD Santa Tracker is widely celebrated, some critics argue that the focus on Santa tracking may overshadow the more serious aspects of NORAD's mission, which includes aerospace warning and control. However, the program remains a cherished tradition for many families, fostering a sense of wonder and excitement during the holidays.
What's Next
As the holiday season approaches, NORAD will continue to promote its Santa tracking program through various media channels, ensuring that families worldwide can participate in this festive experience. The official launch of the NORAD Tracks Santa website on December 1 will kick off the countdown to Christmas Eve, culminating in Santa's global journey.
Verbatim Quotes
- “NORAD is excited to kick off our 70th year tracking Santa, a tradition built on goodwill, binational teamwork, and holiday magic,” — NORAD Tracks Santa Operations Center
- “I watched this with my dad, now I’m watching it with my kids!” — NORAD Santa Tracker Fan
