NORAD vs Google Santa Tracker, and how to track Santa on Christmas Eve
The short answer
Both trackers are free. NORAD Tracks Santa is the classic, with a phone line and a live map on December 24. Google Santa Tracker has games all of December and its own live map on Christmas Eve. Many families use both: games in December, the map on Christmas Eve, and bed when Santa gets close.
The two trackers side by side
| NORAD Tracks Santa | Google Santa Tracker | |
|---|---|---|
| Started | 1955 | 2004 |
| Cost | Free | Free |
| December games | Yes, in a North Pole village | Yes, many small games and lessons |
| Live map on Christmas Eve | Yes | Yes |
| Phone line | Yes, on December 24 | No |
| Apps | Phone apps and website | Website, works on phones |
NORAD Tracks Santa
In 1955, a newspaper ad printed a wrong phone number for children to call Santa. The calls went to a US and Canadian air defense center. The officer on duty played along and told the children where Santa was. The tradition still runs today. On December 24, volunteers answer calls, and the website shows Santa's position on a map.
Google Santa Tracker
Google's tracker opens in early December with games, coding lessons and videos. On December 24, it shows a live map with Santa's next stop, the number of gifts delivered, and facts about each city.
When does live tracking start?
Live tracking starts early on December 24, as Santa leaves the North Pole. He starts in the far east of the Pacific, where it is already Christmas Eve night, and travels west. He reaches Australia and New Zealand first, then Asia, Europe, and the Americas last.
Make it a tradition
- Check the map after dinner. Let the kids see how close Santa is.
- Use it for bedtime. "Santa is in Chicago. He comes to our town soon, and only when everyone is asleep."
- Take a screenshot. Show the kids in the morning where Santa was when they fell asleep. See 12 ways to leave proof that Santa visited.
- Pair it with the plate. Set out the cookies and carrots when Santa is one country away. See what to leave out for Santa.
More ideas for the evening are in 15 Christmas Eve traditions for families with kids.
Questions
Is the NORAD Santa Tracker free?
Yes. The website, apps and phone line are free.
What time does the Santa tracker start on Christmas Eve?
Live tracking starts early on December 24, when Santa leaves the North Pole. Both trackers show games and a countdown before that.
Which country does Santa visit first?
Santa starts in the far east of the Pacific, where Christmas Eve comes first. He reaches New Zealand and Australia early and ends in the Americas.
