Pokémon GO Has Three US Live Events Coming Up

More location-based events for Niantic’s Pokémon GO are on the way to the US this year, and fans are hoping they’re better than the failed Pokémon GO Fest in Chicago. The Fest consisted of long lines, a crashing app, and many disgruntled players.

These events will be free and smaller than Chicago’s gathering, but players can still expect fun activities and rewards.

First up is New Roo Weekend in Akron, Ohio, August 26th- 27th. The event marks The University of Akron’s freshman orientation period and will offer players increased PokéStops and public charging stations, among other non-Pokémon activities.

Niantic will also have a presence at Viva Calle San Jose on September 17th. Players are encouraged to walk, bike, or skate through the six miles of closed streets to explore San Jose, California, and catch some new Pokémon.

Additionally, an event in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, called Philly Free Streets will be closing down roads for the community gathering on October 28th. Pokémon GO will have a presence there, though specific rewards have not been detailed.

All listed events should feature increased temporary PokéStops at significant locations in each city, and you’ll likely see boosted spawn rates for some Pokémon. However, no one is expecting any major activities or surprises like region-exclusive or Legendary Pokémon.

Bigger gatherings like Pokémon GO Fest might pop up eventually, but Niantic probably wants to get their server ducks in rows before attempting something that ambitious again. Expect more smaller “events within events” from the app game over the coming months. We’ll keep you up to date on the latest.