Uncover the Mystery: Where is Santa's 2025 Christmas Journey Taking Him?
By Emily Mae Czachor
News Editor
(https://www.cbsnews.com/team/emily-mae-czachor/)
Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com, bringing her expertise in covering breaking news, extreme weather, and social justice issues. With a background at renowned outlets like the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed, and Newsweek, she brings a wealth of experience to her role.
Updated on: December 24, 2025 / 9:05 AM EST / CBS News
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For 70 years, parents and children across the U.S. have eagerly awaited the annual tradition of tracking Santa Claus's global journey on Christmas Eve, thanks to the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD. This year, as Santa embarks on his 2025 mission, NORAD's live-updating map promises to keep the magic alive. But here's where it gets controversial... Is it really necessary to track Santa's every move? Some argue that the real magic lies in the surprise of waking up to presents, while others believe the tracker adds an extra layer of excitement.
Where is Santa right now?
NORAD's map is updated in real-time, revealing Santa's locations as he travels the world. The journey begins at the North Pole, where NORAD's satellite technology tracks Santa's sleigh as it soars through the sky. But how can we trust that the tracker is accurate? Some question the reliability of the technology, while others argue that the unpredictability of Santa's path adds to the fun.
Santa's route typically takes him down the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, with his first stops in the South Pacific, New Zealand, and Australia. He then zigzags through Asia, Africa, and Europe before crossing the Atlantic Ocean to Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Central and South America. But what if Santa takes an unexpected route? Some believe that the tracker's unpredictability is part of the charm, while others worry that it might lead to disappointment.
When will Santa be at your house?
NORAD experts predict that Santa typically makes his stops between 9 p.m. and midnight on Christmas Eve. However, the tracker can't predict the exact time he'll arrive at individual homes. Some argue that the unpredictability of Santa's arrival time is part of the tradition's charm, while others believe that the tracker should provide more specific information.
What is NORAD?
NORAD, short for the North American Aerospace Defense Command, is a bi-national organization involving the U.S. and Canada. Headquartered at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, NORAD's year-round mission is to defend North America through aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning. With technology like the North Warning System, powerful radar installations across Alaska and northern Canada, and satellites positioned 22,300 miles above the Earth, NORAD is well-equipped to track Santa's journey. But is it right to use such advanced technology for a seemingly harmless tradition? Some argue that the tracker is a fun distraction, while others believe it's a waste of resources.
How does the Santa tracker work?
Starting early on Christmas morning, NORAD tracks Santa's path from the North Pole, mapping his journey as he delivers presents to children worldwide. The NORAD Tracks Santa Operations Center is staffed by uniformed personnel and civilian volunteers, ready to answer phone calls and provide updates on Santa's location. You can call 1-877-HI-NORAD (1-877 446-6723) to get a live update from one of the call center operators. But is it right to divert resources from more critical missions to track Santa? Some argue that the tracker is a fun tradition, while others believe it's a distraction from more important issues.
What else is there to know about the Santa tracker?
NORAD has been tracking Santa's Christmas Eve flights since its formation in 1958, with its predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command, or CONAD, performing the same duty for three years before that. The tradition began in 1955 when a child accidentally called the CONAD Operations Center after seeing an advertisement in the newspaper. The operator went along with the child's request, and the rest is history. But is it right to continue this tradition in an era of technological advancements and global challenges? Some argue that the tracker is a fun distraction, while others believe it's a symbol of unity and joy.
NORAD says the program is made possible by volunteers and supported by funding from corporate sponsors. But is it right to rely on corporate sponsorship for a seemingly harmless tradition? Some argue that the tracker is a fun, family-friendly activity, while others believe it's a commercialized distraction.
So, where is Santa right now? The answer lies in the eyes of the beholder. Is it the magic of the moment or the reliability of the tracker that matters most? The controversy surrounding the Santa tracker invites us to reflect on the balance between tradition and innovation, and to consider the impact of our choices on the world around us. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
