Pokémon Go is getting ready for Christmas with the Holiday Part 1 event later this month

Get ready for some festive fun in Pokémon GO! Niantic is kicking off the first part of their Holiday event, bringing a flurry of exciting activities from December 17th to 22nd. This event is packed with bonuses, special Pokémon encounters, and seasonal challenges.

During Holiday Part One, enjoy double XP for catching Pokémon and a halved egg hatch distance. A brand-new costumed Dedenne, sporting its holiday best, will debut, with a chance to catch a shiny variant! Plus, Shiny Sandygast makes its first-ever appearance. Keep an eye out for Alolan Sandshrew, Swinub, and Darumaka in the wild.

Raids get a festive makeover too! One-star raids feature Pikachu and Psyduck in their winter outfits. Three-star raids offer a chance to catch Glaceon and Cryogonal in special holiday attire, while Mega Latias and Mega Latios will be featured in Mega Raids.

7km Eggs hold a special surprise: Hisuian Growlithe or a holiday-ribboned Cubchoo could be waiting inside! Complete event-themed Field Research tasks, or grab the $2.00 Timed Research for extra encounters with themed Pokémon and Premium Battle Passes. Collection Challenges return, rewarding Stardust, Poké Balls, and Great Balls for catching and raiding. Don’t forget to showcase your festive Pokémon at PokéStop Showcases!

Looking for extra goodies? Redeem these *Pokémon Go codes!* The Pokémon GO Web Store also offers two limited-time deals: the Ultra Holiday Box ($4.99) with storage upgrades and Rare Candies, and the Holiday Part 1 Ultra Ticket Box ($6.99) which includes access to Holiday events and a bonus Premium Battle Pass.