Opération Nez rouge kicks off tonight
Posted November 23, 2025 12:55 pm.
Last Updated November 28, 2025 7:18 am.
The 42nd edition of Opération Nez rouge is set to begin tonight.
The organization is inviting the public to sign up in large numbers to get involved from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31 for one or more evenings of driving people home.
Last year, nearly 20,000 volunteers ensured a safe return home for more than 20,000 partygoers. The goal is similar this year, according to Opération Nez rouge Executive Director Marilyn Vigneault.
“It’s always difficult to estimate how many people we need, but it’s around that number. The more people we have pitching in, the more efficient we are at providing rides,” she says.
She adds that “it’s never too late to be part of a tradition that encourages solidarity, allows you to have unforgettable encounters, and contributes in a tangible way to the magic of the holiday season.”
Demand is particularly high for the weekends of Dec. 5-6 and 12-13 due to office parties.
“If people want busy weekends, they can target those dates. But we obviously need people to wear our famous red vests on all our other operating dates,” says Vigneault.
She emphasizes that “it’s an experience that’s not only rewarding because we’re helping our community and making the roads safer, but it’s also really festive. People enjoy it and come away with great stories.”
New this year: it will be possible to request a ride home using a mobile app.
The service is still free, but donations are welcome. Since Opération Nez rouge was created in 1984, the generosity of users has raised more than $36 million, which has been distributed to youth organizations across Quebec.
Any reason is a good reason to use the service, says Vigneault.
“Nez rouge is often associated with alcohol consumption, but we never ask people to tell us why they want to use Nez rouge. Whether you’re tired, have consumed any substance, or just want to try the experience, don’t hesitate to use the service.”
Those wishing to volunteer their time can register on the Opération Nez rouge mobile app or online.
–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews
