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Today in History: NORAD Tracks Santa program begins from children's calls

12/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 24, 1955, the NORAD Tracks Santa program began when children mistakenly called the Continental Air Defense Command, seeking Santa's location due to a misprinted phone number. This annual tradition allows NORAD to track Santa Claus as he delivers gifts worldwide, starting at midnight on Christmas Eve, and has continued for decades.

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Story summary

On December 24, 1955, the NORAD Tracks Santa program began when children mistakenly called the Continental Air Defense Command, seeking Santa's location due to a misprinted phone number. This annual tradition allows NORAD to track Santa Claus as he delivers gifts worldwide, starting at midnight on Christmas Eve, and has continued for decades.