Pokemon GO Fest is an annual event for players & enthusiasts of the mobile game, Pokemon Go, and has brought the augmented reality sensation into the real world ever since its 2017 inception in Chicago. And from August 18-20, 2023, GO Fest took place in New York City for the very first time!
Hosted by the app’s developer, Niantic Labs, and The Pokemon Company, this GO Fest is the third & last stop on the 2023 global tour that included London, England and Osaka, Japan.
Held at Randall’s Island Park, participants were able to enjoy the event by purchasing digital tickets that unlocked event-exclusive features within the app. Thousands of trainers over the course of the weekend were able to complete researches, encounter brand new unique Pokemon like Mega Diancie, spin special PokeStops, and participate in raids like never before. Not to mention, an optional citywide adventure after the initial 9am-1pm park experience.
And we can’t forget about the exciting in-person happenings taking place all weekend long! We’re talking about Pikachu & Eevee photo ops (above), meet & greets with notable trainers like ZoëTwoDots, over a dozen food trucks, Team Lounges to meet fellow teammates for trades, trivia, and giveaways… and even an official merchandise store that boasted an incredible selection of plush dolls, enamel pins, apparel, and more!
Pokemon music was playing to set the mood all around the island and the amazing decor really immersed you in the whole experience! We’re talking about banners, giant inflatable Pokemon, dedicated Battle Ground platforms, charging stations that looked like PokeStops, and even a life-size Gym! On top of all of that, the island was made up of four environments: Cursed Treasures, Prehistoric Volcano, Poison Swamp, and Athletic Field. Each was aptly decorated and spawned area-specific Pokemon to catch.
There’s no better way to celebrate your love for Pokemon & Pokemon Go than with the one and only GO Fest! And if you missed out on any of the in-person gatherings this year, definitely check out the Global GO Fest happening August 26 & 27, no matter where you’re located!
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