Get ready for an exciting Christmas Eve! This year, you can track Santa Claus in real time as he embarks on his worldwide gift-giving journey, thanks to the beloved Santa trackers from NORAD and Google. It all kicks off at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, where Santa begins his night shift, delivering joy first to New Zealand and Australia, before making his way to South America.
NORAD Santa Tracker: A Festive Tradition
For over 65 years, families have relied on the NORAD Santa Tracker to follow Santa’s adventures. This unique tradition began in 1955 when a misprinted phone number in a Sears advertisement accidentally connected children with NORAD’s predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD). Colonel Harry Shoup, in charge of operations at the time, decided to give kids updates on Santa’s location, and the tradition has continued ever since!
How to Track Santa with NORAD:
1. Visit the NORAD Santa Tracker website: On Christmas Eve, you can view a live map showing Santa’s current location and his next stop.
2. Call the hotline: For a more personal touch, dial 1-877-HI-NORAD (1-877-446-6723) to speak with a volunteer who will update you on Santa’s location.
3. Follow NORAD on social media: Stay in the loop with regular updates on Santa’s progress.
4. Chat with Radar: This year, NORAD has introduced an AI chatbot named Radar to provide the latest updates.
Google’s Santa Tracker: A Modern Spin
Since its debut in 2004, Google’s Santa Tracker has evolved significantly, continually adding new technologies and features. It’s not just about tracking Santa; it’s also a platform for fun and educational activities.
What’s New in the 2024 Google Santa Tracker:
– Interactive Games: This year’s lineup includes fun games like Elf Ski and Penguin Dash, plus creative activities like Santa’s Canvas and the coding-oriented Code Lab.
– Cultural Exploration: Kids can learn about global traditions through the Translations activity.
– Classic Fun: Enjoy beloved games like Present Bounce and Snowball Storm as you wait for Santa.
The heart of the Google Santa Tracker remains its interactive map, allowing families to follow Santa’s journey, complete with arrival times and destination details. This engaging interface makes it easy to build excitement as Christmas Eve unfolds.
How to Use the Google Santa Tracker:
1. Access the Tracker: Visit the Google Santa Tracker website or download the app for Android devices.
2. Track Santa in Real-Time: On Christmas Eve, you can see Santa’s current location, the number of gifts delivered, and his estimated arrival time at your home.
3. Explore the Map: Learn about the over 500 locations Santa visits, complete with fun facts and photos from Google’s Local Guides.
Extra Features and Activities
The Google Santa Tracker isn’t just about games; it also features beautifully animated environments that bring the North Pole to life. From busy kitchens where elves whip up holiday treats to snowy scenes filled with winter fun, the platform is bursting with vibrant art and delightful illustrations.
For parents looking for entertaining and educational experiences this holiday season, the Google Santa Tracker offers a fantastic way to engage children, whether through coding basics or learning about holiday traditions around the globe.
In Conclusion
As you gather with family and friends this Christmas Eve, take advantage of the NORAD and Google Santa Trackers. Whether you prefer the nostalgia of NORAD’s tradition or the modern interactivity of Google, both options provide a delightful way to anticipate Santa’s arrival. Happy holidays, and may your Christmas Eve be filled with joy and wonder!
Track Santa This Christmas Eve with NORAD and Google
