TransLink’s Reindeer Buses 2025 – Spreading Holiday Cheer Across Metro Vancouver

Get ready to spot some festive magic on the streets of Metro Vancouver! TransLink’s Reindeer Buses are set to return for the 2025 holiday season, bringing joy, laughter, and community spirit to commuters throughout the region. Although official dates for 2025 have not yet been announced, the annual Toys for Tots campaign and these iconic red-nosed buses continue to be one of Vancouver’s most beloved Christmas traditions.

📍 Location: Throughout Metro Vancouver
📅 Dates: To be announced (typically late November – December)
💲 Admission: Standard transit fare applies
🌐 More Info: translink.ca/reindeerbus

🎅 A Tradition of Giving: The Toys for Tots Program

For nearly four decades, TransLink and its partners have celebrated the holidays through the Toys for Tots program — a heartwarming initiative that collects toys and cash donations for the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau.

Each year, staff from Coast Mountain Bus Company, BC Rapid Transit Company, HandyDART, Transit Police, and TransLink offices unite to help families in need. Since its inception, the campaign has donated nearly 100,000 toys and tens of thousands of dollars to ensure every child experiences the joy of the holidays.

“Toys for Tots has helped thousands of families create special holiday memories for nearly 40 years,” says Chris Bayliss, Executive Director of the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau. “Every donation matters, and we’re thrilled to work with TransLink to deliver these gifts to families in need.”

🦌 Spot the Reindeer Buses in Action

The Reindeer Buses are more than just a fun sight — they’re a moving celebration of holiday cheer! Each bus is lovingly decorated by Santa’s elves at TransLink depots, complete with red noses, twinkling lights, and festive designs.

Want to catch one on your route? Use the Reindeer Bus Tracker at translink.ca/reindeerbus to see where the nearest festive bus is operating in real time.

🎁 How to Donate

Support the Toys for Tots initiative by donating new, unwrapped toys at select TransLink locations (based on 2024’s program):

🎄 TransLink Customer Service Centre – Waterfront Station
🎄 SkyTrain Customer Assistance Counter – Commercial–Broadway Station
🎄 Lonsdale Quay SeaBus Terminal

All donations go directly to the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau, helping families and children across the region experience a brighter Christmas.

💚 Why Ride a Reindeer Bus?

Riding a Reindeer Bus is a simple way to celebrate the season while contributing to a greater cause. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to a Christmas event, or simply out for a festive ride, these buses are guaranteed to lift your spirits — and your fare helps keep the Toys for Tots program running strong.

“Our Reindeer Buses and Santa Train are a beloved holiday tradition,” says Kevin Quinn, TransLink CEO. “We’re proud to support local charities and encourage everyone to help spread joy and make the season brighter for those in need.”

🧣 Shop TransLink Holiday Merchandise

Fans of TransLink’s festive fleet can also spread the cheer off the road! Check out the TransLink Store for limited-edition holiday items such as the TransLink Holiday Sweater and other seasonal gear — perfect for stocking stuffers or gifts for transit enthusiasts.

🛍 Visit: Translinkstore.ca

🕯 Plan Your Ride

• Track the Fun: Translink.ca/reindeerbus

• Donate: Toys for Tots collection sites across Metro Vancouver

• Fare Info: Standard TransLink fares apply

• Accessibility: All Reindeer Buses are fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs

🎄 A Metro Vancouver Holiday Tradition

For nearly 40 years, TransLink’s Reindeer Buses have brought smiles to riders and families across the region. This festive fleet is more than just a fun seasonal touch — it’s a community-driven effort that embodies the spirit of giving, togetherness, and joy.

Keep an eye out for official 2025 announcements this November, and don’t miss your chance to hop aboard one of Vancouver’s most heartwarming holiday traditions.

🌐 Learn more: translink.ca/reindeerbus

🔗 Discover more Christmas events and light festivals across Metro Vancouver at Vancouver Christmas.