Pikachu’s all dressed up and ready to GO! Join the festivities during Willow’s Birthday Research in Pokémon GO! A new costumed Pokémon will appear in Field Research, Timed Research, snapshot surprises, raids, and more! The event takes place on Tuesday, July 21st, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time.

Wish Professor Willow a very happy birthday with Professor Willow’s assistant Pikachu!

Willow’s Birthday Research - Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time

Pokémon Debut

A new costumed Pokémon will appear in Field Research, Timed Research, snapshot surprises, and raids to celebrate Professor Willow’s birthday!

• Professor Willow’s assistant Pikachu

: You might even encounter a Shiny one or one with a team leader–specific Special Background—if you’re lucky!

Timed Research

There will be a free Timed Research opportunity available. Timed Research rewards include the following.

• Encounters with Professor Willow’s assistant Pikachu
• 1 Lucky Egg
• 1 Star Piece
• and more!

: You might even encounter a Shiny one—if you’re lucky!

Please note that Timed Research expires. The tasks associated with this Timed Research must be completed and their rewards must be claimed before Monday, July 27, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. local time.

Field Research

Event-themed Field Research will be available! Complete Field Research tasks to earn rewards such as PokéCoins, Lucky Eggs, additional encounters with Professor Willow’s assistant Pikachu, and more!

Source: https://pokemongo.com/en/news/happy-birthday-professor-willow-2026