Santa Claus has left the North Pole on his journey to visit children around the world. Like so many of you, we are eager to know where he is, so we have made it possible for you to check right here. Visit throughout the day to get the latest on where Santa Claus is!
As Christmas Eve dawns across Saskatchewan, families preparing for the big day can rest assured that Santa Claus is in safe hands, thanks to NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command). For nearly seven decades, NORAD has been tracking Santa’s magical journey around the world, ensuring not only his progress but also his safety during one of the busiest nights of the year.
Major-General F. William Radiff, stationed at NORAD headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colorado, shared insights into the program’s history and operations. “There are really two reasons why we track Santa every year,” he explained. “The first is that we’re the only organization with the capability to track him using satellites, radars, and fighter aircraft. But more importantly, we do it to keep the jolly old lad safe. With today’s air traffic, there are more airplanes flying than ever before, and our ability to track Santa also helps ensure his safety.”
The NORAD Tracks Santa tradition began in 1955, a heartwarming story that started with a typo in a newspaper ad. A child attempting to call Santa accidentally reached NORAD’s predecessor, and the staff on duty decided to embrace the holiday spirit, providing updates on Santa’s location. Since then, the program has grown into a beloved holiday tradition, now in its 69th year, with millions of families worldwide eagerly tuning in each Christmas Eve.
Maj.-Gen. Radiff highlighted the sophisticated technology used to follow Santa’s journey. “Rudolph’s big red nose is visible from space,” he said, noting that satellites equipped with infrared sensors track the bright beacon. As Santa approaches North America, NORAD employs radar systems and even scrambles fighter aircraft to intercept and escort him through Canadian and U.S. airspace.
“For me, it’s a fantastic experience,” said Maj.-Gen. Radiff, who has had the unique opportunity to fly on NORAD Alert in a fighter jet on five different Christmas Eves. “We fly alongside Santa for a brief moment—he’s incredibly fast—but we get to waggle our wings, say hello, and see Rudolph’s bright nose up close. When my kids were young, it was amazing to come home and tell them I intercepted Santa, and they could even watch it on the NORAD Tracks Santa website.”
As the province gets ready for Christmas, remember to check in with NORAD througout the day right here to see where Santa is on his route. Whether he’s soaring over Europe, approaching the Americas, or delivering gifts somewhere near Saskatchewan, NORAD ensures the magic of Christmas remains alive and well for children—and the young at heart—everywhere.
From all of us here, Merry Christmas!