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NORAD Tracks Santa: A Beloved Christmas Tradition Continues

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, December 27th 2025 at 19:39 GMT by NBC 7 San Diego

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The Tradition Continues: NORAD Tracks Santa’s Journey Around the World

Every year, as Christmas Eve approaches, millions of children (and adults!) eagerly await one thing: tracking Santa Claus's journey across the globe. For decades, this beloved tradition has been orchestrated by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a partnership between the United States and Canada responsible for defending airspace. The NBC San Diego report ("Santa is on the Move and Being Tracked by NORAD") details how NORAD continues to uphold this heartwarming custom, leveraging technology and volunteer efforts to provide real-time updates on Santa's progress.

A History Rooted in a Misunderstanding

The story of NORAD’s involvement with tracking Santa isn't as straightforward as it might seem. It began in 1955 when a Sears department store advertisement directed children to call Santa Claus. Due to a misprint, the number listed was actually for the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), which later became NORAD. A young child called, expecting to speak with Santa, and instead connected with Colonel Harry Shoup, the director of operations at CONAD. Rather than correcting the misunderstanding, Shoup and his staff played along, pretending to track Santa's sleigh on radar screens. This spontaneous act of kindness sparked a tradition that has endured for nearly 70 years.

As explained in NORAD’s official history (linked within the NBC San Diego article), the initial tracking involved volunteers who provided updates over the phone, describing Santa's location and speed. Over time, this simple operation evolved into a sophisticated technological undertaking.

Modern Technology Meets Christmas Magic

Today, NORAD utilizes advanced radar systems, satellites, and even high-powered telescopes to monitor Santa’s progress. The NBC San Diego report highlights how the tracking website (noradsanta.org) provides interactive maps, games, activities, and estimated arrival times for different locations around the world. Children can follow Santa's journey in real-time, seeing where he's been and where he’s headed next.

The website itself is a significant operation. It's powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), allowing it to handle the massive influx of visitors on Christmas Eve – reportedly reaching millions within hours. This year, as detailed on AWS’s blog (referenced in related articles), NORAD anticipates even higher traffic volumes, further demonstrating the global reach and popularity of this tradition. The site also incorporates various languages to cater to an international audience.

The Human Element: Volunteers Make It Happen

While technology plays a crucial role, the heart of NORAD Tracks Santa lies with its dedicated volunteers. According to the NBC San Diego report and information on the NORAD website, hundreds of military and civilian personnel volunteer their time each year to answer calls and emails from children around the world. These volunteers are trained to provide cheerful and informative updates about Santa's location, his reindeer’s health, and even details about the presents he's delivering.

The volunteers aren't just reading scripts; they engage with children in a personalized way, creating memorable experiences that contribute to the magic of Christmas. The NBC San Diego report emphasizes the joy and fulfillment these volunteers derive from participating in this annual tradition. It’s more than just an operational task; it’s a chance to spread holiday cheer and create lasting memories for families.

Beyond Entertainment: A Symbol of Hope and Connection

NORAD Tracks Santa is much more than just a fun online activity. It's become a symbol of hope, connection, and the enduring power of imagination. Especially in recent years, with global events often dominating headlines, this tradition provides a welcome respite and a shared experience that transcends borders and cultures. The NBC San Diego report subtly underscores this aspect, noting how the tradition continues to bring families together during the holiday season.

The fact that NORAD, an organization primarily known for its defense responsibilities, dedicates so much effort to tracking Santa speaks volumes about the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder and joy in a world often characterized by uncertainty. It’s a reminder that even amidst serious duties, there's always room for kindness, tradition, and the magic of Christmas.

Looking Ahead: The Tradition Continues

As the NBC San Diego report concludes, NORAD Tracks Santa is poised to continue its legacy for many years to come. With ongoing technological advancements and the unwavering dedication of volunteers, the tradition will likely evolve while staying true to its core purpose: bringing joy and wonder to children around the world on Christmas Eve. The tradition’s resilience highlights its cultural significance and ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to follow Santa's journey across the globe.

You can find more information about NORAD Tracks Santa at [ noradsanta.org ] and learn more about AWS’s involvement here: [ https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/publicsector/norad-tracks-santa-with-aws/ ].