Google’s new hidden ‘Easter egg’ unlocks a surprise in the run up to Christmas

Tech giant Google has ‘hidden’ another ‘Easter egg’ on their search engine – and this time, it takes you to Santa’s Village before turning into a tracker to keep an eye on his movements on the big day

Google isn’t one to miss out on a celebration – and Christmas is no exception. In the run up to the big day, Google has created a Christmas-themed Easter egg and ‘hidden’ it on their search engine.

In computer software, the term Easter egg is used to describe an inside joke, hidden message or secret feature that users are encouraged to find. The tech giant has become known for its Easter eggs, with many often leading users to ‘secret’ content and games. To unlock their latest surprise, users simply need to type ‘Christmas’ or ‘Christmas Day’ into Google’s search engine.

At the top of the page, a pink present with a yellow bow will appear next to the words ‘Christmas Day’.

When clicking on the icon, a giant air balloon will fill the screen and a waving Santa will direct you to Google’s Santa Tracker.

From here, users can play a number of games including Santa Selfie, Elf Maker and Ollie Under The Sea, watch videos such as Out Like A Light, Yule Log and Penguin Proof, or simply keep across Father Christmas’s movements as we move closer to the big day.

There’s at least 30 activities to work your way through as Google does its bit to keep children occupied as they wait for Santa to visit their homes.

A statement on Google’s Santa Tracker reads: “Santa’s Village is the perfect place for families to celebrate the season. You’ll find all your favourite characters together with fun, educational and interactive activities for every age.

“On December 24, Santa’s Village transforms into a tracking experience where you can follow Santa and his reindeer as they deliver presents to kids around the world.

“Psst! Did you know, Santa’s journey lasts 25 hours?! He makes his first stop just after 10pm local time in far eastern Russia, when it’s 5am in New York and 11am in Paris.”

Ahead of Santa’s visit, parents can ask their Google Assistant for updates on his whereabouts each day.

They simply have to ask: “Hey Google, what’s new at the North Pole?” and Dimplesticks the Elf will share the latest update.

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