Canada Strong Pass to be extended for the holidays and Summer 2026
Canadians will be able to take advantage of the Canada Strong Pass during the holidays.
In an announcement on Friday, Prime Minister Mark Carney revealed that the Canada Strong Pass would be extended for the holidays and Summer 2026.
Canadians will continue to save big on travel within the country just in time for the holiday season, with the pass being renewed from Dec. 12, 2025, to Jan. 15, 2026, and then again for Summer 2026.
“Since its launch, it has led to increased visits across national, provincial and territorial museums, historic sites, parks as well as increased rail travel — supporting local communities and businesses across Canada,” reads a statement from Canada’s Department of Finance.
The Canada Strong Pass launched in April, offering domestic travel perks such as free access to national galleries and museums for children and youth under 18.
Children 17 and under get to ride the Via Rail for free when accompanied by an adult, while young adults aged 18 to 24 get a 25 per cent discount.
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In June, the federal government announced “expanded access” perks for the Canada Strong Pass, which includes a 50 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24 at national museums and at “selected participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries.”
As part of the expanded access, Parks Canada also offers free admission to all 37 of the national parks it manages.
All visitors, regardless of whether they’re Canadian, receive free admission to all national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada.
In addition, no fees are applied for lockage at canals administered by the agency on historic waterways.
If you love camping, the government agency also offers a 25 per cent discount on fees for overnight stays within the Canada Strong Pass renewal dates.
The Canada Strong Pass was created as part of the Liberals’ promise to protect Canada’s natural environment. For this effort, the government plans to establish at least 10 new national parks, marine conservation areas, and 15 new urban parks.
The program’s extension comes ahead of the federal budget announcement, expected to be revealed in November.