Why are there fireworks in Pokemon Go? Special event explained

Trainers around the world have noticed fireworks appearing in the sky in Pokemon Go, but why is this happening? Well, there’s actually a simple answer.

Niantic regularly brings new and exciting events to Pokemon Go to keep players entertained. These typically feature new Research tasks, a variety of Legendaries appearing in Raid Battles, and unique wild Pokemon spawns.

Occasionally, though, an event will also alter the overworld map in some way. We recently saw mysterious portals appearing in the sky to mark the Mythical Hoopa’s arrival, and right now there are fireworks exploding in the sky.

But why is this happening? We’re here to shine a light on the fireworks situation, and explain how it links in with the New Year’s 2022 event that’s currently taking place.

Why are there fireworks in Pokemon Go?

Fireworks are currently appearing in Pokemon Go because of the New Year’s 2022 event, a weekend-long in-game event that is inspired by the New Year’s Eve celebrations taking place around the world.

Niantic explained in a blog post that these fireworks will be appearing from Friday, December 31, 2021, at 11pm local time until Sunday, January 2, 2022, at 12am local time to help “bring in the new year”.

While the fireworks themselves are simply fun visual effects that don’t change gameplay in any way, there are loads of special features to enjoy as part of the New Year’s 2022 event, which we’ll explore below.

What else is happening during the New Year’s 2022 event?

Good question! The annual New Year’s Eve celebration features a bunch of exciting features for Trainers to enjoy, but the biggest is the appearance of party costume Pokemon like Gengar, Slowking, and Hoothoot.

Alongside this, there’s an event-exclusive Timed Research questline to complete for great rewards, a switch up of the 7km Egg pool, and the next part of the Season of Heritage Timed Research story will be unlocked.

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As for event bonuses, Trainers can earn double the amount of Stardust, twice the amount of Hatch Candy, and the distance required to hatch Eggs will be halved – so it’s a great time to work through those Eggs.

You can see everything happening during the New Year’s 2022 event here, and visit our Pokemon Go home page for the latest news, guides, and tips.