TransLink Reindeer Bus & Santa Train 2025

A Festive Metro Vancouver Holiday Tradition Supporting Local Families

TransLink’s beloved Reindeer Bus and West Coast Express Santa Train return for the 2025 holiday season, bringing festive cheer across Metro Vancouver while supporting thousands of local families through the Toys for Tots campaign. Marking its 40th anniversary, this charitable initiative has delivered more than 103,300 toys and over $59,000 in donations since 1985 — a remarkable legacy built by transit staff and community generosity.

Overview

Every December, TransLink transforms select buses into Reindeer Buses, complete with antlers, red noses, lights, and holiday décor. At the same time, the Santa Train offers free West Coast Express rides in exchange for toy or cash donations, helping support families across the Lower Mainland.

Both festive offerings have become treasured holiday experiences for riders of all ages, offering a fun way to celebrate the season while giving back.

Reindeer Bus (November–December 2025)

The iconic Reindeer Bus fleet takes over routes across Metro Vancouver, surprising riders at random throughout the season. Decorated by volunteer “transit elves,” these buses bring warmth, colour, and holiday magic to everyday commutes.

Track the Reindeer Bus in Real Time

You can find Rudolph, Blitzen, and the other festive buses by using the Reindeer Bus Tracker at
translink.ca/reindeerbus

The tracker updates once the Reindeer Buses begin service and shows their live location across the system.

Fun Facts about the Reindeer Bus

• Over 103,300 toys donated through the Toys for Tots campaign

• Buses travel different routes daily

• Decorations are done by volunteer transit staff

• Loved by families, commuters, and transit fans every holiday season

West Coast Express Santa Train (December 6 & 13, 2025)

The Santa Train returns for two Saturdays this December, offering families a festive way to enjoy a day in downtown Vancouver.

How It Works

Ride the West Coast Express for free by donating a new, unwrapped toy or making a cash contribution. In exchange, you’ll receive a return ticket valid for travel that same day.

Full details can be found at
translink.ca/wce

Where Donations Go

• SHARE Family & Community Services (Tri-Cities)

• Maple Ridge–Pitt Meadows Christmas Hamper Society

• Mission Christmas Bureau

40th Anniversary of Toys for Tots

Started in 1985 by a group of Bus Operators, Toys for Tots has grown into one of Metro Vancouver’s most heart-warming charitable traditions. Employees from Coast Mountain Bus Company, BC Rapid Transit Company, HandyDART, West Vancouver Transit, Transit Police, and TransLink offices come together each year to collect gifts for families in need.

Donate an Unwrapped Toy Until December 16

Drop-off locations:

• TransLink Customer Service Centre – Waterfront Station

• SkyTrain Assistance Counter – Commercial–Broadway Station

• Lonsdale Quay SeaBus Terminal

All items are distributed through the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau.

Holiday Merchandise

Transit fans can bring the holiday fun home with TransLink’s seasonal apparel, including:

• Reindeer Bus sweaters

• Holiday scarves

• Festive toques

Browse the collection at
translinkstore.ca

Why You’ll Love This Event

• A Metro Vancouver holiday favourite

• Free family fun through the Santa Train

• Supports community organizations

• Great photo opportunities

• Celebrates 40 years of giving back

Discover More Holiday Events in Vancouver

Find more Christmas and winter events across Metro Vancouver at Vancouver Page Events