THE Reindeer Bus rolls into service on Tuesday, continuing a beloved holiday tradition in Metro Vancouver. In addition to spreading Christmas cheer across the region – the red-nosed reindeer will deliver donated toys as part of the Toys for Tots initiative, which has been operating for more than three decades.
“The Reindeer Bus is one of our proud traditions,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond. “Whether it’s the volunteer decorators, the operators behind the wheel, the passengers in the seats, or the kids on Christmas Day – the Reindeer Bus brings us all together and brings a smile to every street corner!”
Led by Coast Mountain Bus Company, the Reindeer Bus is equipped with an animated Christmas tree, responsive lighting, a flashing nose, holiday carols, and an inflatable Santa Claus to deliver season’s greetings.
Reindeer facts:
- More than 2,000 Christmas lights
- Hybrid-powered reindeer using diesel-electric technology from the North Pole
- Decorated by three Red Seal Elves and three apprentice helpers
- 3,224 toys and $1,240 in cash or gift cards donated in 2018
- 81,834 toys and $46,749 in cash or gift cards donated in 33-year history
- This will mark the 34th year of Toys for Tots
The Reindeer Bus will deliver its presents to the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau on December 20. Toys are collected from various TransLink offices throughout the region. Residents looking to participate can give donations to the TransLink Customer Service Centre at Stadium-Chinatown Station.
Passengers can ride the Reindeer Bus on some Vancouver routes during peak hours. Those who spot it on the road are encouraged to share a picture on social media with #ReindeerBus in the caption.
