NORAD Santa Tracker: Following St. Nick’s Magical Journey Across the Globe
Every Christmas Eve, families worldwide gather to experience a unique holiday tradition: tracking Santa Claus as he embarks on his gift-giving journey across the globe. This whimsical experience is made possible by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), which combines advanced radar, satellites, and even aircraft to follow Santa and his reindeer. Originating from a delightful mix-up in 1955, this charming practice has since become a beloved global tradition, enjoyed by millions of children and families.
The story of the NORAD Santa Tracker began when a child accidentally called a top-secret military hotline, mistaking it for Santa’s personal number. This was due to a printing error in a Sears department store advertisement. Instead of dismissing the call, Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup, then on duty, embraced the moment. He reassured the child that Santa was indeed preparing for his flight. Recognizing the joy it brought, he tasked his team to handle future calls. Thus, the NORAD Santa Tracker was born, evolving into an annual event celebrated by over 200 countries and territories.
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Today, NORAD’s tracker is accessible through a website, mobile app, and even a hotline at 1-877-HI-NORAD. What sets this experience apart is its inclusivity. Thanks to a partnership with Interpreters Unlimited, the Santa Tracker is available in nine languages, ensuring children worldwide can experience the magic in their own tongues. Shamus Sayed, vice president of the interpreting service, highlights the joy this brings, saying, “Seeing Santa in their language makes the magic real for kids everywhere.”
Volunteers play a vital role in this tradition. Each year, more than 1,200 volunteers answer over 130,000 calls and countless emails, sharing Santa’s progress in real-time. The excitement has expanded to social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, making it a fully modernized tradition.
For families eager to bring the spirit of the holidays alive, the NORAD Santa Tracker offers a perfect blend of tradition, technology, and imagination. It’s a chance to step into the magic of Christmas, no matter where you are or what language you speak. As NORAD spokesperson Becky Farmer aptly puts it, “Santa tracking is a worldwide effort, and it’s a way to bring a smile to everyone’s face, young or old.” So this Christmas Eve, join in the fun—visit the site, make the call, and watch as Santa’s sleigh lights up the night sky.
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