San Francisco is preparing for one of the largest Pokémon celebrations of the year as thousands of fans from around the world arrive for the 2026 Pokémon World Championships and the debut of PokémonXP. According to ABC7 News, Mayor Daniel Lurie said that 54,000 tickets have been sold for the Pokémon events, with the massive gathering expected to bring significant international attention and tourism to the city.
The Pokémon World Championships will take place from August 28 to 30 at the Moscone Center, with the biggest competitive action moving to the Chase Center for Championship Sunday. The event will bring together top players across Pokémon TCG, Pokémon video games, Pokémon GO, and Pokémon UNITE. The Pokémon Company has also confirmed that competitors will battle for the title of World Champion and a combined prize pool of more than $2 million.
PokémonXP Gives San Francisco an Even Bigger Pokémon Celebration
Alongside the competitive championships, San Francisco is hosting the first-ever PokémonXP, a dedicated fan experience designed to expand the weekend beyond tournament play. The event gives attendees opportunities to take part in activities, meet other fans, trade collectibles, and explore Pokémon-themed attractions.
Speaking to ABC7, Australian competitor Greg Fortier described PokémonXP as “like a mini Comic-Con just for Pokémon.” Visitors have traveled from countries including Australia, Canada, Peru, and Japan, with many planning to explore San Francisco while attending the event.
The celebrations also extend beyond the Moscone Center. A special Pokémon Worlds Night is scheduled at Oracle Park on August 27, featuring Pokémon-themed activities and a drone show, while Championship Sunday will bring the tournament finals to the Chase Center.
City officials believe the event’s broad international appeal will provide a major boost to hotels, restaurants, retail businesses, and other local attractions. Ana Marie Presutti of the San Francisco Travel Association told ABC7 that the visitors would be “all over the city,” calling the influx a benefit for local businesses.
The event is also significant for Pokémon itself, as 2026 marks the first time PokémonXP has been held alongside the World Championships. With 54,000 tickets sold and competitors and fans arriving from across the globe, San Francisco is set to become the center of the Pokémon world for the weekend.
