TransLink’s Reindeer Buses Return for the 2024 Holiday Season
Get ready to experience festive cheer across Metro Vancouver with the return of TransLink’s Reindeer Bus fleet. These iconic, red-nosed buses are spreading joy throughout the region while supporting families in need as part of the Toys for Tots program. With their bright decorations and charitable mission, the Reindeer Buses are a heartwarming holiday tradition beloved by the community.
A Tradition of Giving: The Toys for Tots Program
The Toys for Tots program, now in its 39th year, is set to reach an incredible milestone—100,000 toys donated to the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau. Each year, TransLink staff from Coast Mountain Bus Company, BC Rapid Transit Company, HandyDART, Transit Police, and TransLink offices collect toys and cash donations to bring joy to families in need.
Impact Over the Years
- Toys Donated: 97,756
- Cash Contributions: $56,660
Chris Bayliss, Executive Director of the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau, highlights the importance of the program:
“Toys for Tots has helped thousands of families create special holiday memories for nearly 40 years. Every donation matters, and we’re thrilled to work with TransLink to deliver these gifts to families in need.”
Track the Reindeer Buses in Real-Time
New this year, you can now track your favourite Reindeer Bus in service using the Reindeer Bus Tracker at translink.ca/reindeerbus. This feature makes it easier for riders to hop on one of these festive buses and be part of the holiday spirit.
How You Can Donate
Support the Toys for Tots program by donating new, unwrapped toys at the following locations until Thursday, December 19, 2024:
- TransLink Customer Service Centre at Waterfront Station
- SkyTrain Customer Assistance Counter at Commercial–Broadway Station
- Lonsdale Quay SeaBus Terminal
Every contribution helps create special holiday memories for families in need.
Decorated by Santa’s Elves
The Reindeer Buses are not just a mode of transportation—they’re a festive experience! Each bus is adorned with seasonal decorations by Santa’s elves at TransLink depots, spreading cheer to all who ride.
Shop Holiday Merchandise
No ride on a Reindeer Bus would be complete without some festive gear! Check out the TransLink Holiday Sweater and other holiday-themed merchandise at the TransLink Store. Perfect as stocking stuffers, these items are a must-have for transit enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike. Translink Reindeer Bus in Metro Vancouver – Vancouver Christmas
Join the Holiday Tradition
TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn encourages everyone to participate:
“Our Reindeer Buses and Santa Train are a beloved holiday tradition. We’re proud to support local charities and I encourage everyone to donate and take part in spreading joy and making the season brighter for those in need.”
Why Ride a Reindeer Bus?
The Reindeer Buses are more than just a festive sight—they’re a community-driven effort to make the holidays brighter for those in need. Whether you’re hopping on to experience the festive decorations or donating toys to the Toys for Tots program, every small action contributes to spreading joy across Metro Vancouver.
Track the Festive Fun with the Reindeer Bus Tracker
For the first time ever, you can now track your favourite Reindeer Bus in real-time using the Reindeer Bus Tracker. Visit translink.ca/reindeerbus to find out when a Reindeer Bus will be on a route near you. Don’t miss your chance to ride one of these festive buses decorated by Santa’s elves!
For more holiday events across Metro Vancouver, visit Vancouver Christmas.
