Canada Strong Pass returns, offering free museum and park admission this summer

By Your Southwest Media Group

Admission to the four Western Development Museums in Saskatchewan is free this summer, starting in mid-June. They're included under the Canada Strong Pass program.

People may also enter Canada's national parks and many other museums for free and get certain reduced rates with the pass that returns this year.

The Canada Strong Pass is good from June 19 to Sept. 7, lowering camping fees by 25 per cent in addition to the free admission at all sites operated by Parks Canada, a statement said. No physical or virtual pass exists. People just have to "show up at the participating sites to enjoy free admission or discounts," the statement said.

The pass "encourages more people to explore the natural wonder and rich history of Canada's national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas," environment minister Julie Dabrusin said in the Parks Canada statement. "By making these places more accessible, we're helping visitors deepen their connection to nature and heritage and foster a strong sense of pride in the places that define our country."

The pass gives free entry for children 17 years or younger and 50 per cent off for adults 18 to 24 years old to national museums, the Plains of Abraham Museum and participating provincial or territorial museums and art galleries.

Besides Saskatchewan's Western Development Museums, 15 museums and galleries around Alberta and two in Manitoba appear on the Canadian Heritage website list of participating museums and galleries.

Those 17 years or younger may ride Via Rail for free when accompanied by an adult. Those 18 to 24 may ride for 25 per cent off.

Officials credit the pass with generating 13 per cent more visitors to national parks last year, an average of 15 per cent more visitors to national museums, 6.5 per cent more riders on Via Rail and an average of 6.3 per cent more attending participating provincial and territorial museums and art galleries.

People must make reservations for such activities as camping and travelling by train, the statement noted.

"Due to strong demand, particularly for camping and access to parks," people should plan their visits and travels after checking the Parks Canada website, it added.