Pokémon celebrates 30th anniversary with special events and new products

In 2026, the popular Pokémon franchise will celebrate its 30th anniversary. To mark the occasion, Target has announced a new line of clothing and products that will be available in stores and online on May 2. Pokémon, which launched in Japan in 1996 and arrived in North America in 1998, has proven over the past three decades that it can appeal to multiple generations.

New products

Target’s new collection includes a wide range of items, from apparel to accessories such as keyboards, water bottles, headphones, hair clips, and tote bags. The collection is focused mainly on the original 151 Pokémon in celebration of Pokémon Red and Green. Target has also warned that some items will be available in limited quantities.

One standout item is the Kanto Region Starter jacket, which will retail for $129.99. For nostalgic fans, there are also individual kickballs with different Poké Ball designs and Trapper Keeper folders featuring iconic Pokémon such as Mewtwo, Arcanine, and Gengar. However, it does feel like a missed opportunity that no special Pokémon 30th anniversary logos were used on the products.

Events in 2026

Alongside the products, The Pokémon Company recently announced the Pokémon Day Out and Night Out events. These events are designed to appeal to different audiences, with the Night Out events aimed more at adults and featuring EDM performances from artists such as Marshmello and Alison Wonderland. The events will also be accompanied by special Pokémon-inspired visuals that match the music.

In contrast, the Day Out events will be more family-friendly, although few details have been revealed so far.

Future releases

Pokémon’s 30th anniversary celebrations are also being supported by a slate of new games and software, with titles already released on Nintendo platforms. The festivities kicked off with the release of Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen for Nintendo Switch in February. Shortly after, Pokémon Pokopia launched as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, while Pokémon Champions arrived on Switch in April and will also be available on iOS and Android later this year. Rumors suggest that Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald may also be coming to Nintendo Switch, but nothing has been confirmed yet.

For Pokémon fans, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the anniversary this year. Whether it’s video games, merchandise, or events, The Pokémon Company seems determined to involve every fan. While some of the announced products are better than others, the lineup gives fans the chance to keep their spending in check and choose the items that are truly worth it.

All in all, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the Pokémon community, with a wide range of activities and merchandise celebrating this iconic franchise.