Free/Discounted Admission to Provincial Museums and Galleries (List) During the Christmas Holidays

The federal government is bringing back a program aimed at helping you stretch your holiday budget while still getting out to enjoy the country.

Credit: Royal Botanical Gardens

Canada Strong Pass, which offers free entry and reduced-rate travel across a wide range of national sites, returns for the holiday season from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026.

If you plan to visit museums or galleries, children aged 17 and under are free at national museums, the Plains of Abraham Museum, and participating provincial and territorial sites. Young adults aged 18 to 24 receive 50 percent off. VIA Rail is offering free travel for children when accompanied by an adult, and a 25 percent discount for young adults.

Parks Canada will waive admission fees at all national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas under its administration. A 25% reduction will apply to camping and roofed accommodations, including equipped camping, oTENTiks, MicrOcubes, cabins, yurts, tipis, Ôasis units, and historic stays. Regular charges still apply for items such as parking, reservations, firewood, mooring, hot springs entry, and guided programs.

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The government says its decision to bring the pass back is rooted in the results from its first run in summer 2025. VIA Rail ridership rose by 6.5 percent, visits to Parks Canada sites climbed by 13 percent, and national museums saw an average 15 percent increase. Officials argue these numbers show how affordability measures can support local communities and cultural institutions.

The pass does not require sign-up or purchase; you simply show up at participating locations. Offers can be used repeatedly throughout the holiday period.

Canada Strong Pass Parks, Museums, Galleries

What: Canadians can enjoy the very best Canada has to offer with the Canada Strong Pass.

When: December 12, 2025, and January 15, 2026

The Pass includes:

Parks Canada:
- Free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada.
- 25% discount on camping fees.
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.
Selected participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries: Free admission for children and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.