Every Christmas Eve, for over seven decades, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has delighted children and families worldwide by tracking Santa Claus’s magical journey across the globe. This festive tradition began in 1955 quite by accident and has grown into a beloved holiday event featuring high-tech radar systems, thousands of volunteer call operators, and interactive online tools. This year, the excitement reached new heights with former President Donald Trump participating live in NORAD’s Santa Tracker calls, bringing added attention and cheer to the time-honored celebration.
A Remarkable Tradition Born from a Happy Mistake
The story of NORAD’s Santa Tracker is as enchanting as Santa himself. In 1955, a misprinted phone number in a Sears advertisement directed a young child’s call to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor, instead of Santa Claus. Rather than dismiss the call, Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup, the duty commander, chose to play along and ordered his staff to track Santa’s flight and take calls from children. That moment launched a grand tradition now celebrated by millions.
Today, NORAD’s Santa Tracker leverages the same advanced satellite systems, radar, and jet aircraft that defend North American airspace to follow Santa’s sleigh from the International Date Line to every child’s home. Volunteers at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado provide cheerful responses to inquiries, often including charming stories like Rudolph’s glowing red nose registering as a missile heat signature, blending myth with marvel.
Trump’s Live Participation Brings New Energy
On December 24, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. EST, Donald Trump joined in the festive spirit by taking part in live calls on the NORAD Santa Tracker hotline. His involvement attracted widespread attention as he engaged with callers, continuing NORAD’s mission of spreading holiday joy. With more than 1,000 volunteers handling over 380,000 calls last year alone, Trump’s participation highlighted the enduring popularity of this unique program.
NORAD also expanded accessibility this year by enabling international audiences to connect through their website, which offers tracking in nine languages, including Japanese and English. This innovation makes it easier for children worldwide to check Santa’s progress — a truly global celebration of holiday wonder.
More Than Just a Holiday Tradition
Beyond entertaining children, the NORAD Santa Tracker is a symbol of hope and joy that transcends its Cold War origins. Originally a defense operation designed to watch the skies for threats, the organization has embraced this annual mission to spread happiness each Christmas Eve. The event connects people across all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and festive spirit.
Whether it’s reassuring children that Santa will reach them on time or sharing heartwarming anecdotes from call volunteers, NORAD’s Santa Tracker remains a cherished part of holiday celebrations. The live calls, now with Trump’s notable engagement, further emphasize the importance of tradition, community, and the magic of believing during the holiday season.
Experience the Magic Yourself
If you want to be part of this enchanting experience, NORAD’s Santa Tracker hotline at 1-877-HI-NORAD operates from 4 a.m. to midnight Mountain Standard Time on Christmas Eve. Additionally, the website offers live updates and interactive tracking tools, bringing the wonder of Santa’s journey right to your fingertips.
Join in the excitement this holiday season, witness a unique blend of history, technology, and festive cheer, and celebrate with millions around the world as Santa makes his way through the night sky — faster than starlight.
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!
