What if, this year, the magic of Christmas began with a small gesture? We all have toys at home that are no longer used, but that could still bring joy to a child. So, rather than letting them gather dust, why not give them a second life? From November 14 to 21, 2026, a bus specially decorated for Christmas will travel through eight towns in the Essonne department to collect unused toys. This charitable initiative will allow many families to enjoy the holidays!
A bus like no other to give toys a second life
This year, the Paris-Saclay bus network has planned a rather special mission for one of its vehicles. For one week, this bus, decorated in Christmas colors, will not only spread the Christmas spirit but, more importantly, will go out to meet residents to collect their old toys.
It has a single goal: to give a second life to toys that are no longer used and allow other children to enjoy them. To make this happen, Paris-Saclay has partnered with Emmaüs, which will collect the donations for the families it supports. Taking part couldn’t be easier. Just take a look at what’s tucked away at the back of your closets. Whether it’s a forgotten board game, a doll, or toy cars, anything can bring joy to another child.
Please note that dirty, damaged, or incomplete toys will not be accepted. As for stuffed animals, they are not accepted for hygiene reasons. There’s no need to put your toys in packaging—they should be easily accessible.
Where can you find the Christmas bus?
No need to travel miles to drop off your toys! From November 14 to 21, the bus will make several stops in town centers and near markets throughout Essonne, making it easy for residents to participate.
Its route will begin on Saturday, November 14, in Les Ulis, before heading to Villebon-sur-Yvette in the afternoon. It will then hit the road again on Monday in Saint-Aubin, followed by a stop in Saclay the next day. On Wednesday, November 18, residents in Gif-sur-Yvette will be able to find the bus, with two stops scheduled throughout the day. It will continue on to Orsay on Friday, November 20, before wrapping up its tour on Saturday, November 21, in Bures-sur-Yvette and Palaiseau.
Each stop will take place at different times. To find out exactly when and where to drop off your toys, check out the Christmas bus’s full route. It’s a great opportunity to free up some space before Christmas gifts arrive, all while bringing joy to other families. After all, that toy that’s been sitting unused in a closet for months might just make another child very happy!