Labubu in Canada: Exclusive Store Drops and Hidden Releases Across Cities
Labubu, the mischievous yet irresistibly charming vinyl figure from Kasing Lung and POP MART, has become a cultural phenomenon around the world. What began as an art toy produced in relatively small batches has transformed into a labubu global collector craze. In Canada, Labubu fever has grown rapidly, fueled by dedicated fans, specialty boutiques, and surprise releases that keep collectors constantly on the lookout. While many assume that Canada receives only occasional shipments from POP MART, the truth is that hidden drops, exclusive events, and city-specific releases have created a thriving collector ecosystem from Vancouver to Montreal.
This blog explores where Labubu appears across Canada, how collectors track down coveted releases, and why these mysterious drops continue to shape the country’s growing art-toy community.
The Rise of Labubu Culture in Canada
The Canadian art-toy market has exploded over the past few years, but few collectibles have matched the impact of Labubu. Its whimsical expressions, imaginative themes, and rare chase figures have captivated both seasoned collectors and newcomers. What makes Labubu especially appealing is the excitement of the hunt. Unlike mainstream toys found in department stores, Labubu pieces rarely sit on shelves for long. Some releases never reach Canada officially, while others arrive through timed drops at POP MART locations, independent designer-toy shops, or pop-up events.
Another element fueling the craze is social media. Canadian collectors use Instagram, TikTok, and Discord to share drop alerts, trade pieces, and announce sightings. This interconnected community has made Labubu more than a collectible—it has become a shared cultural adventure where collectors feel part of something bigger.
Vancouver: The West Coast Hub for Surprise Drops
Vancouver has become one of the most active Labubu hotspots in the country. With a strong art and design culture, the city attracts collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship of vinyl figures. POP MART stores in downtown Vancouver and nearby shopping hubs periodically receive new Labubu shipments, though they almost always sell out within hours. Collectors often line up early in the morning whenever rumors of a drop circulate online.
Beyond POP MART, several independent designer-toy stores in Vancouver have gained reputations for stocking limited Labubu items. Some receive direct shipments, while others acquire pieces through curated imports. These shops announce releases through Instagram stories, creating a sense of urgency among collectors who rush to secure limited figures before they disappear.
Pop-up events are another part of Vancouver’s scene. During comic and art conventions, vendor booths occasionally offer exclusive or older Labubu series. These surprise moments keep collectors constantly energized, never knowing when a rare figure might appear.
Toronto: A Magnet for Exclusive and Hidden Releases
Toronto’s diverse creative scene and large urban population make it a natural home for Labubu fandom. POP MART stores in major shopping centres often participate in global release schedules, offering blind boxes and limited-edition figures during world-wide launch windows. Toronto collectors are known for their dedication, with some fans traveling between multiple stores on release day to increase their chances of finding chase figures.
What sets Toronto apart is its network of boutique toy shops that carry premium and imported Labubu pieces. These shops frequently host micro-events such as early-access sales, live unboxings, and trade meetups. Some even offer loyalty programs or early notifications to frequent customers. This creates a more intimate and interactive collector culture compared to standard retail drops.
In recent years, Toronto has also seen a rise in community-organized Labubu trading meetups. Collectors gather in parks, cafés, and community centres to swap duplicates, discover new series, and connect with other enthusiasts. These gatherings have fostered a strong, supportive community that thrives on shared passion.
Montreal: A Growing Scene with a Taste for Artistic Collectibles
Montreal’s vibrant arts scene has contributed to the growing popularity of Labubu across the city. While the number of POP MART locations is smaller compared to cities like Vancouver and Toronto, the stores that do exist attract loyal collectors who keep a close eye on new releases. Montreal shoppers tend to be keenly aware of global drop schedules and often coordinate with online groups to track shipments and restocks.
Designer-toy boutiques in Montreal also play a pivotal role. Many of these shops focus on art-driven collectibles, making Labubu a perfect addition to their curated selections. These stores often display figures in beautifully arranged showcases that highlight the artistic value of each piece. Montreal collectors appreciate this aesthetic approach, valuing Labubu not just as a collectible but as a form of contemporary art.
Montreal conventions, particularly those centered on anime, comics, and alternative art, occasionally feature Labubu drops or resellers who bring rare and imported pieces. These events often become treasure hunts for collectors hoping to discover figures unavailable anywhere else in Canada.
Hidden Drops and The Thrill of the Hunt
Part of what makes Labubu collecting so exciting in Canada is the unpredictability surrounding releases. POP MART stores occasionally receive unannounced shipments, leading to sudden restocks that only in-store shoppers notice. Collectors refer to these as hidden drops, and they often create a buzz on social media as soon as a single person spots them.
Additionally, some independent shops receive inventory on irregular schedules. These shops may not promote drops ahead of time, preferring to reward local customers who check in consistently. For collectors, this means that persistence pays off. Visiting stores frequently can lead to unexpected finds that never get announced online.
Another source of hidden releases comes from traveling collectors. Canadians returning from Asia or Europe sometimes bring back exclusive Labubu pieces that were never sold domestically. These figures often surface at trade events, collectible markets, or local online groups, giving Canadian fans access to rare treasure-hunt items.
Why Labubu Captivates Canadian Collectors
The enduring popularity of Labubu in Canada stems from several factors. The designs are imaginative, blending childlike wonder with eerie charm in a way that feels both playful and artistic. Each blind box carries an element of surprise, making every unboxing a moment of suspense. Rare chase figures and seasonal releases heighten the thrill, encouraging collectors to complete full series.
Community plays a significant role as well. From Vancouver’s early-morning drop lines to Toronto’s lively meetups and Montreal’s art-centric shops, Labubu has sparked a shared culture that brings people together. Collectors trade stories, tips, and figures, building friendships around a shared passion.
There is also an emotional aspect. Many fans describe Labubu as a comforting collectible—its quirky expressions and charming silhouettes evoke nostalgia and joy. Whether displayed at home, at a workspace, or kept as personal keepsakes, Labubu figures spark happiness in small but meaningful ways.
Conclusion: The Future of Labubu in Canada
As the popularity of designer toys continues to rise, Labubu’s presence in Canada shows no signs of slowing down. With more collectors joining the scene each year, stores and event organizers are paying closer attention to demand. This could lead to more official releases, store-exclusive drops, and collaborative events across Canadian cities.
For now, the charm lies in the chase. Whether you’re wandering into a boutique in Montreal, lining up at dawn in Vancouver, or attending a trade meetup in Toronto, the hunt for Labubu remains an adventure filled with excitement and community. As long as these mysterious creatures keep appearing in unexpected places, Canadian collectors will continue searching, sharing, and celebrating one of the most beloved art toys of this era.
