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

Get ready for Pokémon Go's Holiday festivities! The first part of Niantic's Holiday event kicks off December 17th and runs through the 22nd, bringing a flurry of bonuses, special Pokémon encounters, and seasonal challenges.

This event doubles your XP for catching Pokémon and cuts egg hatching distances in half. A new costumed Dedenne, sporting holiday attire, makes its debut, with a chance to snag a shiny variant. Making its first appearance, Shiny Sandygast will also be available.

Explore the wild to find Alolan Sandshrew, Swinub, and Darumaka. Raids offer a festive roster: One-star raids feature a Winter Carnival Pikachu and a holiday-dressed Psyduck. Three-star raids present a more challenging encounter with an Undersea Holiday Glaceon and Cryogonal. Mega Latias and Mega Latios will star in Mega Raids.

Seven-kilometer Eggs hold the possibility of hatching Hisuian Growlithe or a holiday-ribboned Cubchoo. Event-themed Field Research tasks and a $2.00 Timed Research offer chances to encounter themed Pokémon, Premium Battle Passes, and other rewards.

Collection Challenges return, focusing on catching and raiding, awarding Stardust, Poké Balls, and Great Balls upon completion. Don't miss the PokéStop Showcases to display your festive Pokémon. Plus, redeem Pokémon Go codes for free goodies!

The Pokémon Go Web Store features two limited-time offers: The Ultra Holiday Box ($4.99) includes Pokémon Storage and Item Bag upgrades, plus 17 Rare Candies. The Holiday Part 1 Ultra Ticket Box ($6.99) grants access to Holiday events and a bonus Premium Battle Pass. Stock up on resources with these deals!