housands of Pokémon GO players from around the world are descending on Grant Park this weekend for Pokémon GO Fest 2026: Chicago, a three-day gaming and community event running June 5 through 7.
The festival, hosted by game developer Niantic, brings players together for exclusive in-person gameplay at the lakefront park, with tickets priced at $33 and including one park session plus a full day of citywide gameplay throughout Chicago.
Among the headline attractions is a "Super Mega Raid" at the close of each park session, during which more than 1,000 players can simultaneously battle Mega Mewtwo. Ticket holders will also have the opportunity to encounter Zeraora, a Mythical Pokémon making its first appearance in the game, through a Special Research quest included with admission.
Beyond Grant Park, the event extends across the city through four designated "City Districts," where players complete challenges to earn an exclusive in-game Pokémon GO Expert medal.
Chicago-exclusive features include the debut of Blaze Breed Paldean Tauros in three-star raids, Pikachu wearing a Team Instinct hat, and the first-ever appearance of Shiny Wash Rotom. A companion global event, Pokémon GO Fest 2026: Global, is scheduled for July 11 and 12, allowing players worldwide to participate remotely.
Pokémon GO launched in 2016 and remains one of the most widely played mobile games globally, with GO Fest serving as its flagship annual gathering.
