The Heartwarming True Story of the NORAD Santa Tracker – A Christmas Eve Tradition Turns 70!
Happy Christmas Eve, New Jersey!
The Garden State is glowing tonight, from cozy fireplaces to dazzling neighborhood light displays. But the biggest excitement of all? Watching Santa Claus make his global dash, courtesy of the legendary NORAD Santa Tracker.
A Holiday Tradition Turns 70
The NORAD Santa Tracker celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2025.
The tradition began in 1955, when a misprinted newspaper ad sent children calling a military hotline instead of Santa. Rather than disappoint them, officers at the Continental Air Defense Command played along, offering updates on Santa’s location. That playful moment turned into a beloved annual tradition that lives on today through NORAD.
Now, Santa is “tracked” using radar, satellites, and even fighter jets. All in good fun, of course.
Track Santa Live Tonight
As of December 24, 2025, the tracker is live. Families can follow Santa’s journey on an interactive world map, watch Santa Cam videos, play games in the North Pole Village, and count down arrivals by region.
🎅 Santa typically reaches the East Coast between 9 PM and midnight, after kids are asleep.
You can follow along at: www.noradsanta.org
Local Holiday Magic Around New Jersey
While waiting for Santa to fly over the Garden State, there’s still plenty of local magic to enjoy:
- PNC Bank Arts Center – Magic of Lights drive-thru is still glowing tonight
- Skylands Stadium – Christmas Light Show with synchronized displays
Fun NJ Fact
Because of our proximity to New York City, Santa often swings through the Tri-State area early during his U.S. run. Keep an eye on the tracker.
From the Shore to the Pines, wishing everyone a peaceful, joyful Christmas Eve filled with wonder.
🎄 Merry Christmas, New Jersey! 🎅
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