For generations of children across Canada and the globe, one of the most magical parts of Christmas Eve is checking in on the progress of Santa Claus and his reindeer. This beloved tradition is made possible by a unique and enduring program run by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), which has been tracking Saint Nick's annual journey for nearly seven decades.
A Christmas Mission for NORAD Volunteers
Each year on December 24th, a special operation springs to life at the NORAD headquarters located at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado. While NORAD's primary duty is the aerospace warning and defense of North America, its holiday mission is one of joy. A dedicated team of volunteers mans the phones and computers, taking on the crucial task of answering calls from excited children who want to know one thing: "Where is Santa right now, and when will he get to my house?"
The scene, captured in a photograph from Tuesday, December 24, 2024, shows these volunteers in action. They provide real-time updates on Santa's location as he makes his epic trip around the world, delivering presents. This heartwarming effort transforms a high-tech military command center into a hub of holiday cheer and childhood wonder.
Roots of a Beloved Tradition
The NORAD Tracks Santa program boasts a rich history that stretches back to the 1950s. It began somewhat by accident in 1955 when a Colorado Springs newspaper advertisement misprinted a phone number for children to call Santa. The number listed instead connected to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD's predecessor. The director of operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, instructed his staff to give children Santa's current location, and a timeless tradition was born.
Today, the operation is a massive, high-tech undertaking. It utilizes satellite systems, radar, and jet fighters—playfully dubbed "Santa Cams"—to monitor the sleigh's progress. The program has evolved with technology, now featuring a popular website and mobile apps that allow families to follow along with interactive maps and games. Despite the advanced technology, the human element remains central, with volunteers providing personalized responses to thousands of calls and emails from around the world.
A Symbol of Holiday Spirit and Binational Cooperation
For Canadian families, the NORAD Santa Tracker holds particular significance as a symbol of the close partnership between Canada and the United States in defense and, uniquely, in spreading Christmas joy. NORAD itself is a binational command, and the tracker embodies a shared cultural moment that transcends borders.
The tradition continues to thrive because it represents more than just a fun activity; it is a consistent and reliable source of magic in an ever-changing world. In an era of instant information, the tracker offers a whimsical and imaginative narrative that parents and children can enjoy together. It reinforces the spirit of generosity and global connection that defines the holiday season for many.
As December 2025 approaches, NORAD is preparing once again to shift gears from its serious defense duties to its festive annual mission. For the volunteers who give their time and for the children who eagerly await the updates, the NORAD Tracks Santa operation remains a cherished and magical part of the Christmas story.
