by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 8:10 AM ET, Mon December 15, 2025
The Canada Strong Pass is back, offering free and discounted access to transportation, parks and cultural attractions from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026.
First introduced in the summer of 2025, the Canada Strong Pass is intended to help Canadian families manage rising living costs while encouraging domestic travel during peak holiday periods.
Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport, said, “The Canada Strong Pass offers much more than affordability: it brings people together. I'm proud that VIA Rail is contributing to this measure, which allows Canadians to travel in complete safety and discover the cultural and natural treasures that make our country so rich.”
During the winter program, the pass provides:
- National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and 50% off 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 travellers aged 18 to 24
- Parks Canada: Free admission for all visitors to Parks Canada-administered sites, plus a 25% discount on camping fees
- Participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and 50% off for young adults aged 18 to 24
According to the federal government, the pass delivered measurable results during its summer rollout, including a 6.5% increase in VIA Rail ridership, a 13% increase in visits to Parks Canada sites, and an average 15% increase in visits to national museums.
Based on those outcomes, the Canada Strong Pass will also return for the summer of 2026.
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“After the success of the Canada Strong Pass this summer, our government is reintroducing it to help families save money over the holidays and discover the iconic sites and museums that make our country proud,” said Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages.
The Canada Strong Pass is not a physical pass and does not require registration. Eligible benefits can be used multiple times during the program period. Some attractions may have limited winter hours, and travellers are advised to confirm availability before planning visits.
Participating organizations include national museums, provincial and territorial museums and galleries, VIA Rail and Parks Canada sites across the country.
More information here.
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