Ekans Stars in Pokemon's Year of the Snake Celebration

Pokémon is ringing in the Lunar New Year of 2025 with a special celebration centered around the Year of the Snake, featuring the beloved snake Pokémon, Ekans and Arbok. Dive into the details of this festive event, including an exclusive animated short and exciting in-game activities.

Pokémon Celebrates the Year of the Snake

Releases an Animated Short, Featuring a Shiny Ekans and Arbok

On January 29, 2025, Pokémon's official YouTube channel unveiled a heartwarming animated short to commemorate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake. The video showcases a playful encounter between two Ekans perched in a tree, one of which is a dazzling Shiny variant. The Shiny Ekans, captivated by its surroundings, tumbles onto a passing Arbok, leading to an unexpected evolution. Embraced by its new Arbok companions, the Shiny golden Arbok leads them out of the forest, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

The short, though brief, struck a chord with fans. One viewer poignantly remarked, "Even though we were able to meet, it’s sad to say goodbye," reflecting on the fleeting yet touching interaction between the Ekans. Another fan drew parallels to childhood friendships, emphasizing that differences in appearance don't hinder immediate camaraderie, as seen with the Shiny and regular Ekans.

For many, the video evoked nostalgia, particularly those who first encountered a Shiny Ekans in Pokémon Gold and Silver. One fan shared, "When I was playing Gold and Silver, the first Pokémon of a different color I encountered was Arbo. For some reason, it ran away from me at the time, and I was unable to catch it, something I still regret. However, I am very happy that we were able to meet again like this!"

Beyond the animated short, The Pokémon Company has planned a series of events and merchandise to enhance the Lunar New Year festivities.

Pokémon GO’s Lunar New Year Event

Kicking off on January 9, 2025, Pokémon GO launched its Lunar New Year event as part of the Dual Destiny season, running from December 3, 2024, to March 4, 2025. This event boosts the encounter and Shiny rates for snake-like Pokémon, including Ekans, Onix, Gyarados, Dratini, Dunsparce, Snivy, and Darumaka. Notably, Darumaka, despite its humanoid appearance, draws inspiration from the Daruma doll, symbolizing good luck and perseverance.

The event also features themed Field Research tasks and special 2 km Eggs, offering chances to encounter Pokémon like Makuhita, Nosepass, Meditite, Duskull, and Skorupi. Additionally, a themed Timed Research is available, rewarding players with Zygarde Cells, essential for altering Zygarde's forms.

Join the celebration and immerse yourself in the Year of the Snake with Pokémon's delightful array of events and surprises!