Tracking Santa on Christmas Eve with NORAD

Every Christmas Eve, we follow one of the sweetest holiday traditions of the season: tracking Santa as he makes his magical flight around the world.

This year marks my 12th year sharing hourly Santa updates with you, and I cannot wait to continue the tradition. Starting tomorrow afternoon at 3:00 PM, I’ll post hourly updates so families can follow Santa’s journey together.

The updates will come from the official NORAD Tracks Santa station, where Santa’s Christmas Eve route has delighted children and families for generations. Be sure to stop by throughout the evening, check Santa’s progress, and let the kids see where he is on his flight.

The NORAD Tracks Santa tradition began in 1955, when a child accidentally called the Continental Air Defense Command Operations Center while trying to reach Santa. Instead of ending the call, the commander on duty helped keep the magic alive and assured the child that Santa would have a safe journey.

That simple wrong number became one of the most beloved Christmas Eve traditions in the world.

So gather the kids, pour the cocoa, and check back tomorrow as we track Santa together. His sleigh will be on the move soon!