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

Get ready for some holiday cheer in Pokémon GO! Niantic is kicking off the first part of their Holiday event, bringing festive fun 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, decked out in holiday attire, makes its debut, with a chance to snag a shiny version! Plus, Shiny Sandygast appears for the very first time.

Keep an eye out for Alolan Sandshrew, Swinub, and Darumaka in the wild. Raids offer a festive lineup too! One-star raids feature Pikachu in a Winter Carnival outfit and a holiday-themed Psyduck. For a tougher challenge, three-star raids include Glaceon in an Undersea Holiday outfit and Cryogonal. Mega Raids will star Mega Latias and Mega Latios.

Hatching 7 km Eggs could reveal Hisuian Growlithe or a holiday-ribbon-wearing Cubchoo. Complete event-themed Field Research tasks and a paid Timed Research ($2.00) for encounters with themed Pokémon, Premium Battle Passes, and more. 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!

And don't miss out on the Pokémon GO Web Store's limited-time offers! The Ultra Holiday Box ($4.99) includes a Pokémon Storage upgrade, an Item Bag upgrade, and 17 Rare Candies. The Holiday Part 1 Ultra Ticket Box ($6.99) bundles access to Holiday events and a bonus Premium Battle Pass.