| OTTAWA, Ontario – With the approach of the holidays, a time for coming together and making memories, the Government of Canada announces the return of the Canada Strong Pass, from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026.
The Pass is designed to make life more affordable for Canadian families and offer them simple solutions to rising living costs. With the Canada Strong Pass, Canadians can explore the country with their loved ones and enjoy cultural, historical and outdoor activities for free or at a reduced price.
During this period, the pass entitles the holder to the following:
- National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24;
- VIA Rail: Free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult and a 25% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24;
- Parks Canada: Free admission for everyone to Parks Canada-administered sites, plus a 25% discount on camping fees;
- Participating provincial and territorial art galleries and museums: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
First introduced in the summer of 2025, the Canada Strong Pass has had a tangible impact:
- 6.5% increase in VIA Rail ridership;
- 13% increase in visits to Parks Canada sites;
- Average growth of 15% in national museum visits.
- Average growth of 6.3% for participating provincial and territorial museums and art galleries.
These results show that choosing Canada means directly supporting our institutions, our communities and our economy. That is why the pass will also be back for the 2026 summer season.
By reactivating the pass for the holidays and next summer, the Government of Canada is reaffirming its commitment to making life more affordable for Canadians, supporting families, and showcasing the cultural and natural heritage that enriches our country. In this festive season, the Canada Strong Pass invites us to rediscover our country, together. |
Quick facts
- The Canada Strong Pass is not a physical pass that you need to purchase, sign up for, or collect. Simply visit participating organizations to take advantage of the benefits
- Pass offers can be used as many times as desired during the period from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026, inclusive.
- Some sites or services are not open during the winter period or they adjust their schedules for the holidays. Please contact them directly before planning your visit.
- Canada’s national museums, some provincial and territorial museums and galleries, and the National Battlefields Commission are participating in this initiative. Together, these institutions preserve and promote Canadian history, art, culture, science and nature. They welcome millions of visitors every year and play an essential role in transmitting our heritage and our identity.
- VIA Rail plays an essential role in connecting communities across Canada by offering a comprehensive network of passenger rail services. Focused on passenger service, the company aims to offer passengers an unrivalled travel experience.
- The places administered by Parks Canada are at the heart of our national identity. They bring us together through powerful stories and breathtaking landscapes, and foster a shared attachment to the places that have shaped who we are as Canadians.
- As part of its vast mandate—which includes 171 national historic sites, 48 national parks, five national marine conservation areas and one national urban park—Parks Canada provides services at more than 200 locations across Canada, in every province and territory, and in rural, urban and northern regions.
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