Pokemon GOFest - Jersey City 2025

In June 2025 I went to my very first PokemonGO Fest - I only did one day (Sunday morning) and weather was warm and it was fun! Even as a solo player, it was a festive atmosphere, the staff and attendees were generally nice, and it was just fun to be an environment full of fellow pokenerds.

The event was super well organized- starting with directions to the park/event area from NYC.

I left Manhattan early- around 7 AM. WTC to Jersey City required taking a PATH train and it was crowded with Poke players.

Walking path took a while but it was easy to follow the crowd. 

Entrance: Music playing 

Team Mystic Wristband! 

New things to try for everyone

Zones 

1st Zone: Carnival 

Many photo ops with the sign throughout actually

Besides taking pictures, there were various zones, chances to meet influencers in the community, trivia and other events at each team booth. Each zone had specific in-game pokemon and tasks, and tons of raids were available too. 

Samples of activities: 

Photo Ops 

I basically finished most of the in-game zone activities in around an hour, and was rushing back since I had a 1 pm broadway show. I didn't finish some of the egg walking. If you are serious about the game I would recommend starting on Friday to relieve pressure of finishing zone specific game play.

Pokemon Store

No line in late morning of last day- but slim pickings. Some discounted merch from the year before but I didn't buy anything.

Misc swag I got: (Pikachu plushie NYC is from nintendo NY and a gift.)

Overall thoughts: 

Wish I had pre-ordered GOFest pin 2025 - but I guess plan early instead of a few weeks in advance. If I had known I would've tried to visit all 3 days- but it was pretty out of the way. A fun family event and even if you don't want to pay for GOFest people could visit and take pics with the pokemon balloons around. If I happen to be nearby I would go again, and wish I played more at Pokemon Worlds!