Improved network solutions and Verizon Frontline resources provide redundancy and reliability so children around the world can track Santa Claus

NORTH POLE, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As bells ring with activity at the North Pole in preparation for Santa’s annual journey, Verizon Frontline is stepping in once again to ensure children worldwide can witness the magic on December 24th . For the 22nd consecutive year, Verizon is partnering with the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) to provide reliable connectivity for the renowned NORAD Tracks Santa initiative.

This year, Verizon’s strong network will continue to support the program’s toll-free hotline, allowing children to discover Santa’s whereabouts as he travels around the world. The effort includes leveraging Verizon’s C-band spectrum to provide high-performance 5G connectivity and redundant Wi-Fi to help ensure uninterrupted service for the hotline during the busiest time of the year.

“We are honored to continue this holiday tradition with NORAD, a partnership that has brought joy and wonder to families for more than two decades,” said Maggie Hallbach, senior vice president, public sector, Verizon Business. “By combining innovative technology with holiday spirit, we are helping bring Santa’s journey to life for children around the world.”

State-of-the-art tools for seamless Santa tracking
To strengthen NORAD’s operations, Verizon is providing state-of-the-art equipment, including Cradlepoint routers, Wi-Fi jetpacks and a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) solution Verizon Frontline Mobile Assets for on-site support. Additionally, Verizon’s Consulting Services team maintains the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systeman advanced call management solution to help the hotline manage the over 130,000 calls it receives on Christmas Eve.

Santa’s helper
Enabling the NORAD Tracks Santa initiative requires the deployment of nearly 900 in-person and 200 virtual volunteers, including Verizon employees, military personnel and other government, corporate and community partners. Together they answer questions like “Where is Santa Claus now?” to “What are Santa Claus’ favorite cookies?”

How to Track Santa Claus
Hotline: Call 1-877-Hi-NORAD (1-877-446-6723) starting December 24 at 6 a.m. EST. Save the number on your Verizon phone as “NORAD Call Center” for quick access.

Online: Visit www.noradsanta.org for live updates, games and interactive features, or visit NORAD’s social media channels for video footage from SantaCams.

Mobile App: Download the NORAD Tracks Santa app on Apple or Google Play to have a magical experience right at your fingertips.

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