Every year, on Christmas Eve, millions of children around the world anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus, eagerly awaiting the moment presents will appear under their Christmas trees. This excitement is heightened by the thrilling experience of tracking Santa's sleigh as it flies across the globe, thanks to technology-driven initiatives by organizations like Google and NORAD.
Google has embraced the festive spirit with its interactive website, "Follow Santa Claus," launched on December 24. According to reports, visitors can enjoy features such as tracking Santa's real-time route, engaging with holiday-themed games, and counting down to his departure from the North Pole. This year, the site showcases not only Santa's path but also offers festive activities for all ages, such as memory games and color-in Santa crafts. There’s even a dedicated family guide section detailing Google's Christmas initiatives, enriching the holiday experience for families across the globe.
Meanwhile, NORAD has been the pioneer of Santa tracking for nearly 70 years. The tradition started unexpectedly back in 1955 due to a printing error. A newspaper ad incorrectly listed the number for children to call Santa, connecting them instead to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), the predecessor of NORAD. Colonel Harry Shoup, who answered the first call, decided to make the best of the situation by providing children with festive updates on Santa's location. This marked the beginning of what has become a beloved annual event.
This Christmas Eve, NORAD will commence tracking Santa around the globe starting at 6 AM local time with real-time updates available on their website. Besides just following Santa's travels, NORAD features engaging elements such as games, holiday music, and even stories about Christmas traditions. Their seasoned volunteers will once again make phone updates available for excited children and families waiting anxiously for news of Santa. The NORAD site invites users to explore the North Pole, and its theater features Christmas films, embodying the very spirit of the season.
With the advancements of technology, tracking Santa has never been easier. Families can access both NORAD and Google’s websites to see Santa’s sleigh fly over their homes. Google Maps also allows people to see Santa's route as if they were exploring the streets themselves via Street View. Smart home devices, like Google Home and Alexa, provide quick updates when asked where Santa is currently located, keeping the magic alive even with modern conveniences.
The appeal of tracking Santa goes beyond just fun and games; it connects families and fosters anticipation during the holiday season. Children and parents alike find joy and excitement knowing they are part of the same global experience. Santa's travels become not just a solitary event but shared joy across continents.
NORAD spokespersons stated, "We are the only organization with the technology, qualifications, and people to do this. And we love it! NORAD is honored to be Santa's official tracker!" This reflects the deep-seated enthusiasm and commitment of both wife individuals and organizations to keep the tradition thriving.
Each year, as Christmas Eve approaches, communities come together, filled with anticipation and excitement, united by the delightful tradition of tracking Santa. It serves as both entertainment and symbol of hope during the holiday, reminding us of the warmth of connection and joy amid the chill of winter. Today, technological innovations have woven seamlessly with folklore, making each Christmas Eve even more magical as families gather to watch Santa make his rounds.
For those wishing to join the fun this holiday season, both platforms are ready to guide you through Santa's magical nighttime trek. Whether you choose to visit NORAD or Google, the experience promises to be filled with laughter, festive cheer, and cherished memories as families embrace the wonder of Christmas right from the comfort of their homes.
