Millions Track Santas Journey Around the Globe on Christmas Eve – Follow Santa Claus in real time this Christmas Eve with NORAD, Google, and Flightradar24. Learn how millions are tracking his magical sleigh ride.
Millions Join the Global Tradition of Tracking Santa on Christmas Eve
As Santa Claus makes his magical journey across the globe, millions of people are keeping tabs on his sleigh in real time through various online platforms. This beloved tradition has become one of the most popular Christmas Eve activities, captivating children and adults alike.
How to Track Santa’s Sleigh
Multiple platforms offer real-time tracking of Santa’s journey:
- Flightradar24– Users can input “SANTA1,” “HOHOHO,” or “R3DN053” to follow Santa’s sleigh, which is coded as SLEI or R3DN053. Over 50,000 people join the fun on this platform each year.
- NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command)– This tradition began in 1955 when a child mistakenly called NORAD while trying to reach Santa. Today, NORAD provides tracking via their website, app, and a hotline at 1-877-HI-NORAD.
- Google– Offers a live tracker alongside festive holiday games to engage users while they wait for Santa’s arrival.
The Legendary Sleigh
Santa’s sleigh, registered under the call sign HOHOHO (MSN 0001), is a one-of-a-kind nine-engine caribou-powered marvel. At 1,753 years old, it has been continuously upgraded, including the addition of a ninth engine to enhance its performance.
Santa’s journey begins at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, moving westward across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. The route is subject to changes based on weather conditions, ensuring smooth delivery of presents worldwide.
A Beloved Holiday Tradition
For many families, tracking Santa has become a cherished part of Christmas Eve. NORAD’s hotline receives tens of thousands of calls from excited children seeking updates on Santa’s progress. Meanwhile, online trackers attract millions of users, making Santa’s flight arguably the most-watched journey in the world.

Whether it’s through Flightradar24, NORAD, or Google, following Santa’s sleigh has become a festive way to bring the magic of Christmas into homes around the globe.
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