Self-Instruct
How To Track Santa: The Perfect Christmas Eve Tradition
One magical night every year, children all around the world eagerly await the arrival of Santa Claus. Their eyes sparkle with excitement as they imagine him flying through the night sky, delivering gifts to children far and wide. For decades, children have wondered about the logistics of Santa's journey and how they can track his progress. Fortunately, technology has made it possible for children (and adults!) to follow Santa's path in real-time. In this article, we will explore various ways to track Santa's whereabouts on Christmas Eve and create a memorable holiday tradition.
One of the most popular ways to track Santa is through the NORAD Santa Tracker. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has been tracking Santa's journey since 1955, when a misprinted phone number in a Christmas ad led children to call the command center looking for Santa. Instead of turning them away, the operators on duty that night decided to provide updates on Santa's location for the children. Today, NORAD uses cutting-edge technology including radar, satellites, and fighter jets to track Santa's sleigh as it zips across the globe.
To track Santa with NORAD, simply visit their official website, noradsanta.org, on Christmas Eve. The website is beautifully designed and offers an array of interactive features. Children can explore Santa's Village, play games, and even learn about the different countries Santa visits during his journey. The real-time tracker provides updates on how many gifts Santa has delivered, his current location, and estimated arrival times for different regions. The NORAD Santa Tracker is an excellent tool to engage children and build excitement on Christmas Eve.
While NORAD is a popular choice for tracking Santa, another option is the Google Santa Tracker. Google started their Santa Tracker in 2004, and it has since become a beloved tradition for many families. The Google Santa Tracker offers a wide range of activities, games, and educational resources that are both fun and informative. Children can send and receive voice messages from Santa, explore different locations around the world through a virtual globe, and even learn to code with Santa's elves.
To access the Google Santa Tracker, simply visit santatracker.google.com on Christmas Eve. The website features a countdown timer to Santa's departure and provides updates on his location, just like the NORAD tracker. The Google Santa Tracker has a vibrant and playful design that captures the holiday spirit, making it a delight for both children and adults.
In addition to the official trackers, there are also numerous mobile apps available for tracking Santa. These apps offer a convenient way to keep tabs on Santa's progress from the palm of your hand. One popular app is "Santa Tracker" by Onteca, available for both iOS and Android devices. This app allows you to follow Santa's journey on a map, play games, and even count down the days until Christmas.
Another app worth exploring is "Santa Tracker - North Pole Command Center" by Smart Apps for Kids. This app offers real-time updates of Santa's location, interactive games, and a voice recorder to send messages to Santa himself. The app also includes a digital advent calendar, adding an extra touch of excitement in the days leading up to Christmas.
By using any of these tools, families can make tracking Santa a yearly tradition. Gather around the computer or mobile device on Christmas Eve and witness the wonder and joy in your children's eyes as they watch Santa traverse the globe. Create an atmosphere of anticipation by preparing favorite snacks, such as cookies and milk, and encourage your little ones to write letters to Santa to leave beside their treats. Makeshift telescopes or binoculars can also be a fun addition, allowing children to "search" for Santa in the night sky.
To enhance the experience, parents can also weave stories and folklore around Santa's journey. Share tales of the magic of Christmas, how Santa navigates the world, and the importance of kindness and generosity during the holiday season. As the night progresses and Santa approaches your region, consider going outside for a walk to feel the crisp winter air and look up at the stars. Encourage your children to make a wish and believe in the possibilities that await them in the coming year.
Tracking Santa is not only a thrilling way to spend Christmas Eve, but it also opens up a world of imagination and wonder for children. It instills a sense of magic, fosters curiosity, and reinforces the spirit of giving. Incorporating the tradition of tracking Santa can become a cherished annual event in your family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
In conclusion, tracking Santa has never been easier or more exciting. Through the NORAD Santa Tracker, Google Santa Tracker, or various mobile apps, families can follow Santa as he travels around the world, delivering gifts and spreading holiday cheer. By embracing this tradition, you can create a magical experience for your children and build anticipation for the holiday season. So this Christmas Eve, gather your loved ones, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and embark on a journey to track Santa. Happy tracking!