Pokemon GO Fest: A Can’t-Miss Event for 2026 for Lovers of the Japanese Phenomenon

Released in July of 2016, the mobile game Pokémon GO was an instant, global smash hit. Old and new Pokémon fans alike went out in such droves that those first few months after release have been remembered as ‘The Summer of Pokémon GO.’ While the initial craze eventually wound down, the app still boasts incredible popularity even nine years after its release, with 90 million players around the world and a turnout of over a million for last year’s annual Pokémon GO Fest. That’s why, in this article, we’re going to cover a little bit about not only the original app, but just exactly what you can expect from the unmissable Pokémon Go Fest held each year!

Take a photo with some Pokémon – Photo Credit: Emma Evans

What are Pokémon GO and Pokémon GO Fest?

The app owes its success not just to the popularity of the Pokémon franchise but to the groundbreaking playstyle introduced by the app’s developer, Niantic. In an era where video games have faced increased scrutiny for discouraging exercise and socializing, Niantic created an app that not only encourages but requires both. Utilizing a combination of GPS and AR (augmented reality) technology, the game has players walk around to find Pokémon in their own neighborhoods. Another important mechanic of the game is raiding. To compete in a raid, players must team up with others in their area to battle an exceptionally strong Pokémon. It’s these features that led to the birth of the Pokémon GO Fest.

This event is an annual gathering that is designed to encourage players to explore new places and connect with each other. The first Pokémon Go Fest was held in Chicago in 2017, but the event has expanded and is now held in three different cities each year. As the birthplace of Pokémon, one of these cities is always in Japan. Past events in Japan have been held in Yokohama, Sapporo, Sendai, and – this year – Osaka.

Enjoy a delicious cup of tea at the Calming Teahouse – Photo Credit: Emma Evans

What can I expect at Pokémon GO Fest in Japan?

In Japan, Pokémon GO Fest 2025 was held over the weekend in Osaka’s Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park from May 29th to June 1st. What makes GO Fest appealing for many is not just the opportunity to travel or meet new people, but also the in-game perks like the chance to encounter rare or newly released Pokémon. This year’s event gave players in Japan the opportunity to catch Hawlucha, a Pokémon that is usually only available in Mexico, as well as legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta.

The way it works is, once the player purchases their ticket online, they connect it to their Pokémon GO app, and the in-game perks become available at their chosen time. Players without a ticket will see no change to their app even if they go to the event location. The experience is divided into two parts: park-play and city-play, and players can choose whether they would like to enter the park in the morning or the afternoon. While the main event is mostly centered around the park, city-play allows players to continue catching Pokémon throughout the day as they explore Osaka. Tickets for 2025 cost ¥3600 per person (¥3100 with the early bird discount). When purchasing a ticket, there are optional add-ons that can be used to customize your experience depending on your preferred style of gameplay. For example, even though each ticket is only for one day of play, players can add on ‘Citywide gameplay’ for other days during the event to extend their experience.

Event map – Photo Credit: Emma Evans

How can I participate next year?

Pokemon GO Fest 2025 may be over, but every year tickets sell out fast, so keep an eye on Pokemon GO’s social media for news about next year’s event. Even if you are unable to travel to one of the main event cities, a Pokémon GO Fest global ticket gives players the chance to participate in the fun from any location. Using Niantic’s Campfire App, players can look for and join a local event hosted by one of Pokémon GO’s Community Ambassadors.

Banners for the event at the station – Photo Credit: Emma Evans

Pokémon GO Fest isn’t just an opportunity to make a rare catch; it’s also a great chance to discover a new city in Japan and get to know the local people who share your love for Pokémon. If you participate in the next Pokémon GO Fest, you’re bound to work up an appetite. So, consider joining a food tour with Arigato Travel to enjoy some delicious cuisine and learn about the city as you explore it in search of your next new Pokémon.

Is Pokémon GO Fest only for hardcore fans?

Absolutely not! Players of all types turned out for Pokémon GO Fest Osaka. Couples, families, and even the elderly could be seen collecting Pokémon beneath the watchful eye of the park’s iconic statue, The Tower of the Sun. Beyond just in-game play, the event also featured kid-friendly activities like meet-and-greets with Pokémon mascot characters and a shopping campaign collaboration with local stores. What should be noted, however, is that participating in Pokémon GO Fest involves a lot of walking and, depending on the day, Japan can get quite hot, so it’s a good idea to bring a hat and plenty of water.