People spent their Friday exploring the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa on July 16, 2021. The Canadian Press
Federal museums in Ottawa are ready to welcome thousands of visitors this Christmas season with the return of the popular Canada Strong Pass. The federal program, praised by families and students across the country, will once again offer free and discounted access to museums, parks, and rail travel during the holidays.
Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the program’s renewal Friday while discussing affordability measures included in the upcoming fall budget.
“Canadian families loved the Canada Strong Pass,” Carney said. “Since no one can experience all that Canada has to offer in just a few short months, we’re renewing it for the summer of 2026 and also launching it this holiday season starting in mid-December.”
The program will run from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026, and return again next summer.
What the Pass Includes
The Canada Strong Pass offers free admission to national museums for children and teens aged 17 and under, and a 50 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24. It also provides free train travel for children accompanied by adults on VIA Rail and a 25 per cent discount for young adults.
During the summer, the pass also covered free admission to all national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas, along with a discount on camping fees.
Ottawa’s federal museums say they are thrilled to welcome families back. The Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum said in a statement that the holidays are “a magical time” to visit and that the pass helps more families make lasting memories.
The Canadian Museum of Nature reported a strong increase in attendance this past summer thanks to the pass, especially among youth. The National Gallery of Canada also expressed excitement, saying it looks forward to working with the government to continue the program.
A Boost for Tourism and Families
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe called the renewal “great news” for the capital, saying it would attract more visitors to local cultural institutions.
Carney said the program has already proven successful. Museum visits rose sharply this summer: attendance jumped 13 per cent at the Museum of Nature, 18 per cent at the War Museum, 12 per cent at the Museum of History, and 4 per cent at the National Gallery. VIA Rail ridership increased by 13 per cent nationwide.
Families in Ottawa say the pass makes outings affordable. “It’s a great opportunity for my kids to learn and explore,” said Mylene Moreau, a mother of four. “Having it free definitely makes it easier to go.”
Another parent, Sophie Desjardins, who has five children, said she looks for free family activities. “During winter, it’s hard to find affordable things to do. This helps a lot,” she said.
Students also welcomed the VIA Rail discount. Elizabeth Sternberg, a university student, said, “My train ticket home usually costs over $100. The discount will make it much cheaper to visit my family.”
