Pokémon GO players worldwide are diving into the Winter Weekend 2025 event, which started on December 27 at 10 a.m. local time and runs until December 28 at 8 p.m. local time. This short but packed event offers unlimited GO Points, special Timed Research, and boosted chances for shiny Pokémon, tying into the broader Winter Holiday celebrations to keep trainers engaged during the festive season.
Event Highlights and Schedule
The Winter Weekend fits snugly within Pokémon GO’s Winter Holiday Part 2, which began on December 24 and ends on December 29. Players can expect a flurry of activities designed to maximize fun and rewards in just two days.
Trainers have praised the timing, as it aligns with holiday breaks, allowing more time to explore outdoors or play from home. Recent updates from the game show high participation rates, with millions logging in to chase exclusive features.
This event builds on past holiday successes, like last year’s boosts in shiny encounters, which drew record player numbers.
Unlimited GO Points and Bonuses
One standout feature is the removal of the daily limit on GO Points, letting players earn as many as they want through tasks and challenges. This change encourages non-stop play and helps advance in the GO Pass system.
The GO Pass: Winter Holiday 2025 adds bonus daily quests, offering extra rewards like XP and items. Reaching major milestones unlocks perks such as double XP from gifts and 50% more raid wins.
Players report these bonuses make grinding feel rewarding, especially for those building teams for upcoming raids.
Here are the key bonuses:
- No cap on daily GO Points earnings
- Extra tasks in the holiday GO Pass
- Boosted XP from gifts and raids
- Increased item drops from PokéStops
These elements tie into the season’s theme of precious paths, focusing on exploration and community.
Timed Research for Shiny Eevee
The free Timed Research is a big draw, rewarding players with encounters of Eevee wearing a holiday hat. This version has a higher chance of being shiny, making it a must-do for collectors.
Tasks involve simple actions like catching Pokémon or spinning stops, and rewards include XP, Stardust, and the prized Eevee. All must be completed by the event’s end on December 28.
Community feedback highlights excitement over shiny rates, with some trainers already sharing catches on social media.
To give a clear view, here’s a table of sample Timed Research tasks and rewards based on player reports:
| Task | Reward |
|---|---|
| Catch 10 Pokémon | 500 XP |
| Spin 5 PokéStops | 1,000 Stardust |
| Complete 3 field research tasks | Holiday Hat Eevee encounter (shiny boosted) |
| Send 5 gifts to friends | 2,000 XP |
This setup keeps things accessible for new and veteran players alike.
Ties to Winter Holiday Part 2
Winter Weekend overlaps with Part 2 of the Winter Holiday event, introducing Pokémon like Rolycoly and its evolutions. Trainers can find themed wild spawns, including Galarian Darumaka and Bergmite.
The event also boosts shiny chances for Stantler and Dedenne in holiday outfits, adding to the festive vibe. This integration means players get double the action without missing out.
Recent raids feature legends like Kyurem, tying into December’s lineup of powerful Pokémon.
Niantic’s updates emphasize community events, with global participation spiking during holidays.
Tips to Maximize Your Experience
To make the most of this event, focus on high-traffic areas for better spawns and group raids for extra bonuses. Use lures and incense to increase encounters, especially for that shiny Eevee.
Stock up on berries and balls beforehand, as the unlimited points encourage extended sessions. Team up with friends for gift exchanges to hit those XP milestones faster.
Players should watch for weather boosts, as snowy conditions could enhance certain types.
With the event wrapping up soon, now is the time to jump in and enjoy the holiday magic in Pokémon GO.
Share your shiny catches or event stories in the comments below, and spread the word to fellow trainers for more community fun.
