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NORAD Tracks Santa: A Beloved Tradition Continues

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 0:40 GMT by NBC 7 San Diego

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The Tradition Continues: NORAD Tracks Santa Around the World – Again!

Every year, as Christmas Eve approaches, millions of children (and adults!) eagerly await one thing: tracking Santa’s journey across the globe. This beloved tradition is brought to life by a unique partnership between the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and volunteers, offering an interactive online experience that has captivated generations. NBC San Diego recently highlighted this annual event, showcasing its history, operation, and enduring appeal.

The NORAD Santa Tracker, available at [ https://www.noradsanta.org/ ], isn’t just a whimsical website; it's a testament to an accidental beginning rooted in Cold War military operations. The story begins on December 24th, 1955. A Sears department store advertisement directed children to call Santa Claus at a specific phone number. Due to a misprint, the number was accidentally connected to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), which later became NORAD. Instead of reaching Santa, children were greeted by Colonel Harry Shoup, Director of Operations for CONAD. Recognizing an opportunity to delight children and diffuse potential confusion, Shoup instructed his staff to play along, pretending they were tracking Santa’s sleigh on radar.

This impromptu performance blossomed into a yearly tradition. NORAD, formed in 1958 as a joint US-Canadian operation to defend North America from aerial threats (as explained by the official NORAD website [ https://www.norad.gov/About/History/ ]), embraced the Santa tracking initiative, transforming it into a major public relations and community engagement event. It’s become a prime example of how an unexpected error can lead to something positive and enduring.

The NBC San Diego article emphasizes that the NORAD Santa Tracker is more than just a visual display. It’s a fully interactive experience. The website features games, activities, and stories for children of all ages leading up to Christmas Eve. As December 24th unfolds, volunteers – often military personnel and their families – answer calls and emails from children around the world, providing updates on Santa's location. These volunteers are crucial; they field thousands of inquiries, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience for each child.

The tracking itself relies on sophisticated technology, although it’s presented with a playful narrative. NORAD utilizes radar systems (which are actually used for real-world defense purposes), satellites, and even Santa's "elf network" to monitor his progress. While the specifics of how this “tracking” works are intentionally vague and fantastical – maintaining the magic for children – it does involve utilizing NORAD’s extensive communication infrastructure. The website uses a combination of GPS data (though presented as Santa’s location) and pre-determined routes to create the illusion of real-time tracking.

The NBC San Diego report highlights that the tradition's popularity has only grown with technological advancements. While initially relying on phone calls, the NORAD Santa Tracker now boasts a robust online presence, accessible through websites, mobile apps, and social media platforms. This accessibility allows children worldwide to participate in the fun, regardless of their location or access to traditional communication methods. The website supports multiple languages, further expanding its reach and inclusivity.

The article also touches upon the cultural significance of the NORAD Santa Tracker. It’s a shared experience that transcends borders and unites people through a common sense of wonder and holiday spirit. It provides a moment of joy and distraction from daily life, fostering positive memories for children and adults alike. The tradition has become deeply ingrained in Christmas Eve celebrations for many families, representing a blend of technology, military heritage, and the timeless magic of Santa Claus.

Beyond the entertainment value, NORAD views the Santa Tracker as an opportunity to engage with the public and build goodwill. It’s a unique way to showcase their capabilities while simultaneously providing a heartwarming experience for children. The volunteers involved also gain valuable skills in communication, customer service, and teamwork – all while contributing to a cherished holiday tradition.

As the NBC San Diego report concludes, the NORAD Santa Tracker remains a beloved institution, demonstrating how an accidental beginning can evolve into a global phenomenon that brings joy and wonder to millions each Christmas Eve. The website is expected to be live starting on December 23rd, ready to guide children around the world as they await Santa’s arrival.

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