Illustration of felt volunteers in Santa hats sorting wrapped presents into baskets beside a small decorated tree (The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive)
Christmas Giving Opportunities

The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive is Nanaimo's largest initiative to ensure a joyful Christmas for local families. Since 1983, they have provided new toys, books, and games to children in need. The drive relies on the generosity of community donors and the dedication of hundreds of volunteers who help with everything from toy sorting to assisting families.

All ages FREE

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Various Drop-off Locations · Nanaimo, BC Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Donating to a local cause, volunteering, community support

Vibe

Community-focused, generous, festive, helpful

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (2/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Check the website for specific drop-off location hours, as some have extended collections until Christmas while others are only available on specific dates like November 28-30, 2025.
  • Consider the suggested gift ideas for different age groups (0-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, 13-17) to ensure your donation meets a child's needs.
  • If you wish to volunteer, sign up on their website early, as key volunteer positions are highlighted and regular volunteer spots fill up quickly.
  • While donations of gently used bicycles were historically refurbished, they now exclusively accept new, unwrapped toys and gifts.
  • If you are a recipient of the toy drive, they kindly ask that you do not volunteer to allow everyone to fully experience the spirit of giving and receiving.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Collections continue until Christmas at specific locations.
  • Nanaimo Christmas Village (Cavallotti Lodge) is a drop-off location from November 28-30, 2025 only.
  • Community partners like Nanaimo Clippers host events such as the Annual Teddy Bear Toss.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of donations are accepted?

They accept new, unwrapped toys and gifts. They no longer accept used items.

Where can I drop off donations?

Donations can be made at various locations across Nanaimo, including shopping centers, credit unions, fire stations, and more. Check their website for a full list and specific dates.

How can I volunteer?

You can apply to be a volunteer through their website. They rely heavily on volunteers for various roles during the toy drive.

What is the history of the toy drive?

The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive began in 1982/1983, starting with inmates refurbishing bicycles and toys, and growing into a large community effort supported by firefighters, local businesses, and residents.

Can I make a financial donation?

Yes, financial donations are accepted and help the elves purchase toys for children in the community. Details can be found on their drop-off locations page.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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