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, running from December 17th to 22nd. This event is packed with bonuses, exciting encounters, and seasonal challenges.

Double your XP for catching Pokémon and enjoy half the usual hatch distance for Eggs. A brand-new costumed Dedenne, sporting its holiday best, makes its debut, with a chance to snag a shiny version! Plus, Shiny Sandygast appears for the very first time.

Explore the wild to find Alolan Sandshrew, Swinub, and Darumaka. Raids are equally festive, featuring Pikachu and Psyduck in winter outfits in one-star raids. For a bigger challenge, take on Glaceon (in an Undersea Holiday outfit) and Cryogonal in three-star raids. Mega Latias and Mega Latios will also be appearing in Mega Raids.

Seven-kilometer Eggs hold exciting possibilities, including Hisuian Growlithe or a holiday-ribbon-adorned Cubchoo. Complete event-themed Field Research tasks, or opt for a $2.00 Timed Research for encounters with themed Pokémon, Premium Battle Passes, and more rewards.

Collection Challenges return, rewarding Stardust, Poké Balls, and Great Balls for catching and raiding. Show off your event-themed Pokémon in PokéStop Showcases! Don't forget to redeem those Pokémon Go codes for some free goodies!

The Pokémon Go Web Store offers two limited-time deals: the Ultra Holiday Box ($4.99) includes a Pokémon Storage upgrade, an Item Bag upgrade, and 17 Rare Candies; and the Holiday Part 1 Ultra Ticket Box ($6.99) bundles Holiday event access with a bonus Premium Battle Pass. Stock up on resources and enjoy the festivities!