It’s Christmas Eve, and Santa Claus is ready for his annual flight from the North Pole to deliver gifts to children around the world. For decades, the North American Aerospace Command, or NORAD, has been tracking Santa’s journey, ensuring that everyone can follow his progress in real-time. This beloved holiday tradition continues in 2024, with NORAD’s official map providing live updates on Santa’s whereabouts.

Where is Santa Right Now?

NORAD updates its map in real-time to show Santa’s current location as he makes his way around the globe. Starting at the North Pole, Santa’s journey takes him south along the Pacific rim, across Asia, Australia, Africa, and Europe. After delivering more than 5 billion gifts, he stops in Antarctica before heading to the Western Hemisphere. As night falls, Santa travels through South America and the Caribbean, then makes his way north across the Atlantic to Greenland and into Canada.

You can monitor Santa’s progress on the live map available on NORAD’s website or follow occasional updates throughout the day on NORAD’s Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube pages.

When Will Santa Arrive at Your House?

While the NORAD tracker shows Santa’s location at different points on his route, it cannot predict the exact time he will arrive at individual homes. According to NORAD, Santa’s arrival time varies and he typically reaches homes between 9 p.m. and midnight on Christmas Eve. However, there’s one consistent factor: Santa only arrives when children are asleep!

NORAD writes on its website, “Only Santa knows his route, which means we cannot predict where and when he will arrive at your house. We do, however, know from history that it appears he arrives only when children are asleep!”

How Does the Santa Tracker Work?

The NORAD Santa tracker relies on radar technology and satellites to keep tabs on Santa’s sleigh. The system, known as the North American Warning System, includes 47 different radar checkpoints across northern Canada and Alaska. NORAD’s website explains, “NORAD makes a point of checking the radar closely for indications of Santa Claus leaving the North Pole every holiday season. The moment our radar tells us that Santa has lifted off, we begin to use the same satellites that we use in providing air warning of possible missile launches aimed at North America.”

Families can also get updates via phone from the NORAD Tracks Santa Operations Center by calling 1-877-HI-NORAD (1-877-446-6723) to speak with a NORAD operator who can provide Santa’s exact location. Lines are open from 6 a.m. till 2 a.m. Eastern Time on December 24.

Volunteers and Support

More than 1,250 uniformed personnel from the United States and Canada volunteer on Christmas Eve to answer phone calls and emails that NORAD receives while its Santa tracker is live. Civilians from the U.S. Department of Defense also assist, and some years, even the president and first lady join in to answer calls.

This collaborative effort ensures that families around the world can enjoy the magic of tracking Santa’s journey and feel connected to the holiday spirit.

The History of the Santa Tracker

NORAD has been tracking Santa’s journey since 1958, continuing the tradition started by its predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command, which handled the project for three years before NORAD took over. The tradition began as a simple goodwill gesture and has evolved into a beloved holiday custom that brings joy to millions of people each year.

NORAD says Santa Claus typically begins his Christmas journey at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, traveling westward. This means he starts by visiting areas in the South Pacific before moving on to New Zealand, Australia, Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, Central America, and South America. “Keep in mind, Santa’s route can be affected by the weather, so it’s really unpredictable,” NORAD says. The agency coordinates with Santa’s Elf Launch Staff to confirm his launch time, but once Santa is on his way, he calls the shots.

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate Christmas Eve, the NORAD Santa tracker allows families to follow Santa’s magical journey in real-time, adding excitement and wonder to the holiday season. This cherished tradition not only brings joy to children but also fosters a sense of global unity and goodwill.

Don’t miss the opportunity to track Santa’s progress on NORAD’s live map and enjoy the festive updates on social media. As you eagerly await Santa’s arrival, remember to get to bed early — after all, Santa only visits when children are fast asleep!