The festive season in Victoria is set to get even brighter with the return of BC Transit’s beloved Santa Bus!
After a one-year hiatus due to logistical challenges, the Santa Bus is back on December 14th and 15 to spread holiday cheer throughout the city.
The Santa Bus, a longstanding tradition for more than three decades, has been a cherished part of Victoria’s holiday festivities. Decked out with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and often adorned with a reindeer nose and antlers, it has brought joy to countless families who made it a staple of their seasonal celebrations.
Last year, logistical constraints prevented BC Transit from bringing the Santa Bus to the streets of Victoria. The decision was made to prioritize maintaining regular transit services, as taking a bus out of operation for the event could have disrupted service availability.
In a statement last year, BC Transit explained, “Due to existing fleet and resource challenges, BC Transit will not be taking part in some of the annual events and traditions we usually participate in this time of year, including the Santa Bus.”
This year, the Santa Bus is making a triumphant return, much to the delight of Victorians. Riders can enjoy free festive rides filled with holiday music and cheer on Saturday, December 14th, and Sunday, December 15th. Full schedules and route information are available on BC Transit’s Victoria website.
In addition to the Santa Bus, BC Transit is also hosting its annual Stuff the Bus event on Saturday, December 7th. A double-decker bus will be parked at the Save-On-Foods at Tillicum Centre from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., ready to be filled with donations of non-perishable food items, toys, and clothing.
All contributions will go to the Mustard Seed Food Bank and the Salvation Army, supporting families in need during the holiday season.
The Santa Bus will also be in the 42nd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade as well as the IEOA Lighted Truck Parade.
For more details on schedules, trip planning, and customer alerts, visit bctransit.com/victoria.
Has the Santa Bus been a part of your family tradition? Let us know in the comment section below.
