Full Breakdown
NORAD Tracks Santa: A 70-Year Holiday Tradition
12/26/2025, 11:30:47 AM
The Origins of a Beloved Tradition
The tradition of tracking Santa Claus began in 1955 when a child mistakenly called the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) instead of Santa. A misprinted phone number in a Sears advertisement led the child to the military command center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Colonel Harry Shoup, the officer on duty, decided to play along and informed the child of Santa's location. This spontaneous act initiated what would become the annual NORAD Tracks Santa program, which continued when NORAD replaced CONAD in 1958.
How NORAD Tracks Santa
For 70 years, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has utilized its advanced technology to track Santa's journey on Christmas Eve. NORAD employs a combination of radar, satellites, and fighter jets to monitor Santa's flight path. According to Lieutenant General Iain Huddleston, NORAD Deputy Commander, the organization uses the same systems that protect North American airspace year-round. “We use a combination of radar, satellites, and fighter jets to track Santa,” he stated.
The tracking operation begins at 6 a.m. Eastern Time on December 24, with updates provided through various platforms, including the NORAD Tracks Santa website, social media, and a dedicated hotline (1-877-HI-NORAD). In 2025, for the first time, NORAD introduced a web-based calling option, allowing children without phones to inquire about Santa's location.
Volunteer Efforts and Community Engagement
Each year, over 1,000 volunteers, including military personnel and civilians, answer calls from children around the world. In 2024, NORAD received approximately 380,000 calls on Christmas Eve. Major Kathleen Leaton of the Royal Canadian Air Force emphasized the joy this tradition brings, stating, “It’s really cool just to tell the story about NORAD, our important mission for Homeland Defense, but also just brings so much happiness to young kids around the globe.”
The Magic of Santa's Journey
NORAD's tracking capabilities allow families to follow Santa as he travels from the North Pole, zigzagging across the globe. While NORAD cannot predict Santa's exact route or arrival time at individual homes, they advise children to be in bed by 8 p.m. to ensure Santa can deliver gifts while they sleep. “Only Santa knows his route, which means we cannot predict where and when he will arrive at your house,” a NORAD official explained.
Criticism and Cultural Impact
Despite its festive nature, the tradition has faced skepticism. Some critics have questioned the authenticity of the high volume of calls received, suggesting that the number may be inflated. However, NORAD maintains that the program serves as a vital outreach effort, blending holiday spirit with educational opportunities about aerospace technology.
Conclusion: A Tradition of Joy
The NORAD Tracks Santa program has evolved from a simple mistake into a cherished global tradition, bringing joy to millions of children and families each Christmas Eve. As NORAD continues to track Santa, it reinforces the magic of the holiday season while showcasing the capabilities of modern aerospace technology. Families can join in the excitement by visiting the NORAD Tracks Santa website or calling the hotline to learn about Santa's journey, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas remains alive and well.
