October 2025 in Pokémon GO is packed with a variety of spooky events and exciting new raids that promise to engage trainers worldwide with fresh content and unique gameplay experiences. The month features a blend of seasonal celebrations, special raid days, and the debut of new Pokémon forms, all designed to keep the community active and entertained.
The month kicks off with the Harvest Festival event from October 10 to 16, introducing the debut of Dipplin and Hydrapple, two new Pokémon with a unique Syrupy Apples mechanic. During this event, trainers benefit from double Candy when catching Pokémon with Pinap or Silver Pinap Berries, boosted shiny odds for Pumpkaboo and Smoliv, and increased spawn rates at Mossy Lure-boosted PokéStops. This festival sets a festive autumn tone, combining the harvest theme with Pokémon GO’s signature gameplay enhancements[1].
Following the Harvest Festival, from October 16 to 20, Pokémon GO celebrates the launch of Pokémon Legends: Z-A with a special event. This celebration includes exclusive raids and themed activities that tie into the new game’s release, offering trainers a chance to catch Pokémon related to the Legends series and earn unique rewards[1].
One of the standout events in October is the Mega Rayquaza Raid Day on October 18, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time. Mega Rayquaza, a powerful Legendary Pokémon, returns to Mega Raids, and trainers can receive up to five additional free Raid Passes by spinning Gym Photo Discs during the event. The daily Remote Raid limit is also increased to 20 from October 17 at 5:00 p.m. to October 18 at 8:00 p.m. PDT, allowing more opportunities to participate remotely. Mega Rayquaza is unique because it requires not only Mega Energy but also the move Dragon Ascent, which can only be learned with the help of a Meteorite. To support trainers, Timed Research tasks are available during the event that reward Meteorites upon completion. Trainers can also purchase an event ticket for $4.99, which grants additional Raid Passes, increased chances of receiving Rare Candy XL, and bonus XP and Stardust from raids. Tickets can be gifted to friends with a Friendship level of Great Friends or higher[2].
The Halloween 2025 event is a major highlight, split into two parts. Part one runs from October 21 at 10:00 a.m. local time until October 27 at 10:00 a.m. local time. This event introduces new Pokémon such as Sinist, Pochaist, and Sinischa, with Sinischa being an evolution that requires 50 candies of Pochaist to obtain. The event features increased shiny rates for certain Pokémon, including a shiny boost for Galarian Yamask. Additionally, new Shadow Pokémon like Shadow Galarian Mask and Shadow Phantom appear in one-star Shadow Raids throughout the event, providing fresh challenges and collection opportunities. The Halloween event also includes themed bonuses and raid battles featuring Alolan Marowak, Typhlosion, and Samurott, among others[3][5].
Throughout October, Mega Raids feature a rotating lineup of Mega Evolutions including Mega Steelix, Mega Scizor, Mega Lucario, and Mega Sceptile, giving trainers a variety of powerful Pokémon to battle and catch. These Mega Raids are a staple for competitive play and provide valuable rewards for participants[6].
Additionally, the week of October 20 to 26 includes a special Raid Hour on October 22 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time, featuring Normal, Shock, and Douse Genesect. This event offers a focused opportunity to catch these rare forms and adds to the month’s diverse raid offerings[7].
While the events are primarily entertainment-focused, it is worth noting that Pokémon GO encourages physical activity and social interaction, which have recognized health benefits. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking and outdoor exploration promoted by games like Pokémon GO, can improve cardiovascular health, mental well-being, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The social aspects of the game also support mental health by fostering community and reducing feelings of isolation[CDC]. These benefits align well with the game’s design, which motivates players to explore their surroundings and participate in community events.
In summary, October 2025 in Pokémon GO offers a rich calendar of spooky-themed events, new Pokémon debuts, and challenging raids. From the Harvest Festival’s autumnal charm to the intense Mega Rayquaza Raid Day and the thrilling Halloween celebrations, trainers have numerous opportunities to catch rare Pokémon, earn exclusive rewards, and enjoy the social and physical benefits of the game. The combination of new mechanics, special raid passes, and event tickets enhances the gameplay experience, making October a standout month for Pokémon GO enthusiasts.
