TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei will host a series of events celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise this October after being selected as one of five participating cities in Asia.
The Taipei City Government announced the partnership at a press conference Thursday, saying the celebration will be held under the PokeXciting! campaign. The centerpiece of the festivities will be a Pokemon parade on Oct. 10 and 11 in Taipei's Xinyi shopping district, with additional appearances around Taipei City Hall, per a press release.
Organizers said the event will feature interactive displays, themed photo spots, and activities designed to attract Pokemon fans and players from Taiwan and abroad. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) said the Pokemon franchise has become a global cultural phenomenon since the release of its first game in Japan in 1996.
Chiang said the company later expanded into video games, trading cards, animation, and the augmented reality mobile game Pokemon GO, which attracted large numbers of players to Taipei's Beitou Park. He said Taipei is honored to participate in the anniversary celebration, which will also include character meet-and-greets, flash mob performances, and themed photo installations.
Chiang invited trainers from around the world to visit Taipei and experience the celebrations. He mentioned the other participating cities are Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Manila, and Bangkok.
Ahead of the anniversary festivities, Taipei will also host Pokemon GO Fest on July 11 and 12. The main offline venue will be Xinzhongshan Linear Park (心中山線形公園), located between Zhongshan and Shuanglian MRT stations.
The event will feature life-sized Pokemon displays, interactive exhibits, photo opportunities, and a Mewtwo-themed installation illuminated at night. Players who complete in-game event missions at the park will be eligible to receive exclusive merchandise, including Pikachu and Eevee-themed caps, hand fans, postcards, and stickers.
A Mewtwo-themed EasyCard will go on sale beginning July 11 at Taipei Metro merchandise stores and through the official online shop. City officials said additional details about the anniversary celebration will be announced through Pokemon's official website and a Taipei City Facebook page.
