It’s that magical time of year again – TechRadar’s annual Santa Tracker is back, and we’re here to help you track Santa’s every move as he delivers presents around the world. Whether you’re using the NORAD Santa Tracker or Google’s Santa Tracker, there are plenty of ways to follow the jolly man in the red suit as he makes his way across the globe at record-breaking speeds.
What is a Santa Tracker?
The tradition of tracking Santa’s journey dates back to 1955 when a happy accident led to a festive yearly event. NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) originally began sharing updates about Santa’s location after a Sears catalog printed the wrong phone number for a Santa hotline. Today, NORAD continues the tradition with real-time tracking via its website, and Google has also joined in since 2004, combining its cutting-edge technology with festive fun.
Key Santa Trackers to Follow
- NORAD Santa TrackerFor many, NORAD is the go-to source for following Santa. Run by the US military, the NORAD Santa Tracker offers a mix of live updates, games, and even the option to call 1-877-HI-NORAD to find out where Santa is. While the site’s design is simple, its heartwarming history and the army of volunteers behind it make it a cherished tradition.In addition to live tracking, NORAD offers Santa games like Santa’s 3D Run and interactive features for children to enjoy. The tracker is available as an app on both Google Play and the App Store, so you can follow Santa wherever you are.
- Google Santa TrackerFor a more interactive and visually vibrant experience, Google’s Santa Tracker is the perfect choice. Launched in 2004, Google uses its Maps technology to provide live updates on Santa’s progress, including the number of gifts delivered. The Google Santa Tracker site also features a range of fun mini-games, coding activities for kids, and festive activities.Google’s tracker is available on mobile browsers, but you can also download the app from the Google Play Store for easy access. If you have an iPhone, visiting the site through your mobile browser offers the best experience.
Which Santa Tracker is the Best?
Both trackers offer unique experiences, so which one is best depends on your preference:
- For a traditional and heartfelt experience, NORAD is the original and arguably the most beloved. It offers a mix of military and holiday cheer, with historical significance and volunteers answering calls.
- For a visually fun and interactive experience, Google Santa Tracker wins with its modern design, games, and educational content. Its mapping technology and detailed live updates also make it one of the best ways to follow Santa in real-time.
Track Santa Live This Christmas Eve
On Christmas Eve, both trackers will provide real-time updates as Santa begins his journey around the world. Here’s a sneak peek at the magic:
- Google Santa Tracker will show Santa’s location on a world map, giving you details about his current location, gifts delivered, and his next stop. Google’s tracker also features an engaging feed of holiday-themed games and activities for kids.
- NORAD Santa Tracker offers live satellite images of Santa’s sleigh and reindeer, along with a countdown to his departure. NORAD also provides updates on where Santa is located at any given moment, along with Christmas trivia and songs.
Follow Santa’s Journey
Here’s how to track Santa live as he spreads holiday cheer:
- NORAD Santa Tracker: Head to the NORAD website for live updates, games, and calls to track Santa’s progress.
- Google Santa Tracker: Visit the Google Santa Tracker website to follow Santa on Google Maps, play fun games, and enjoy holiday activities.
Fun Santa Facts
Did you know? Santa has his pilot’s license, a fact that he earned way back in 1927. He also holds Canadian passports (yes, really!). And as Google’s AI suggests, Santa travels at incredible speeds — over 6 million miles per hour! How’s that for Christmas magic?
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re using NORAD or Google to track Santa, both options provide a magical experience for the whole family. From holiday games to real-time tracking, there’s something special about following Santa’s journey as he brings joy to children worldwide. So, tune in, and enjoy the holiday cheer as St. Nick makes his annual worldwide trek!