Every day of the year, NORAD works tirelessly to defend North America, tracking everything that flies over Canada and the United States. But on December 24, NORAD takes on a very special mission—tracking Santa Claus as he delivers joy and presents around the globe!
Did you know this beloved tradition started by accident? Back in 1955, a child dialing Santa’s phone number from a department store ad accidentally called the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center instead. Air Force Col. Harry Shoup, the commander on duty, quickly realized the mix-up and reassured the child that he was speaking to Santa himself. That small act of kindness turned into a heartwarming tradition, carried forward when NORAD was formed in 1958.
Now, for more than 66 years, NORAD Tracks Santa has delighted millions of children and families worldwide. Each Christmas Eve, NORAD volunteers answer over 130,000 calls from excited kids eager to know where Santa is. And the fun doesn’t stop there! The NORAD Tracks Santa website brings the holiday spirit to life with interactive games, heartwarming stories, videos, and fascinating insights into how Christmas is celebrated around the world.
π With visitors from over 200 countries and territories, this tradition is more than just tracking Santa—it’s a global celebration of joy, generosity, and community.
We invite YOU to join in the magic! Gather your family and make this free holiday tradition part of your season's festivities. Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement as we follow Santa’s journey together.
π Call the NORAD Tracks Santa Hotline: 1 (877) HI-NORAD
π Visit the website for games and updates: NORAD Tracks Santa
Let’s make this Christmas Eve unforgettable—because when Santa takes flight, the world is watching! πβ¨
In addition to the phone line and website, children and the young-at-heart can track Santa through our mobile apps and our social media platforms:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
NORAD Tracks Santa Website
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