It’s Christmas Eve, and Santa Claus is once again preparing for his magical journey, delivering gifts to children across the world. As part of a cherished holiday tradition, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) will track Santa’s flight in real-time, providing updates on his location as he travels from the North Pole to homes worldwide.
This beloved tracking tradition began in 1958 when NORAD took over from its predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), which began the initiative in 1955. Each year, NORAD continues to use state-of-the-art technology to track Santa’s movements, and in 2024, they are once again updating the map live as Santa makes his way across the globe.
Where is Santa Right Now?
NORAD provides continuous updates on Santa’s location as he travels the world delivering gifts. After starting his journey from the North Pole, Santa heads south along the Pacific Rim, crossing through Asia, Australia, Africa, and Europe. By the time he reaches the Western Hemisphere, he’s already traveled through South America, the Caribbean, and made his way northward across the Atlantic. By now, he is on his way through Canada and the United States.
To track his progress, visit NORAD’s official website, where you can follow Santa’s journey via a live map. For updates throughout the day, check out NORAD’s social media pages on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
When Will Santa Arrive at Your House?
While NORAD’s tracker provides up-to-date information on Santa’s location, the agency cannot predict when he will arrive at individual homes. According to NORAD, only Santa knows his exact route and schedule. However, based on years of tradition, he typically arrives at homes between 9 p.m. and midnight on Christmas Eve, when children are fast asleep.
How Does the Santa Tracker Work?
NORAD uses advanced radar and satellite technology to track Santa’s flight. This technology, which is also used to monitor airspace over North America, includes the North American Warning System, with 47 checkpoints across Canada and Alaska. When Santa lifts off from the North Pole, NORAD’s radar system immediately detects his departure, and satellites take over to monitor his journey around the world.
Families can also get Santa’s exact location via phone. Simply call 1-877-HI-NORAD (1-877-446-6723) to speak with a NORAD operator who will provide the latest updates. NORAD volunteers, including more than 1,250 uniformed personnel and Department of Defense civilians, help answer calls on Christmas Eve.
More Fun Facts About the Santa Tracker
Santa typically starts his global trek from the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean and travels westward. His journey takes him across the South Pacific, New Zealand, Australia, Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, Central America, and South America. While NORAD does coordinate with Santa’s Elf Launch Staff to confirm his departure time, Santa’s path is flexible and can be influenced by weather conditions, making it unpredictable.
As always, NORAD reminds us that while they can track his progress, only Santa himself knows where he’ll go next. But one thing is certain—he’ll make his rounds, ensuring that every good boy and girl receives their gifts before Christmas morning.
