Pokemon 30th anniversary: Authentic key merchs, TCG, and more

Pokemon 30th Anniversary marks a historic 30-year milestone for one of the most influential entertainment franchises in the world. Celebrated throughout 2026, this event brings a wave of highly anticipated Pokémon TCG releases, limited-edition merchandise, and iconic collaborations rooted in Japanese pop culture.

Explore the complete Pokemon 30th Anniversary guide with Japan Figure International and discover the most valuable and authentic releases worth owning in 2026.

1. When is Pokemon's 30th anniversary?

Pokémon’s 30th anniversary officially takes place on February 27, 2026, marking exactly three decades since the original release of Pokémon Red and Green in Japan on February 27, 1996. This date is globally recognized as Pokémon Day, and in 2026 it becomes an even more historic milestone as the franchise celebrates 30 years of games, anime, trading cards, and cultural impact.

Rather than limiting the celebration to a single day, the entire year of 2026 is being treated as the Pokémon 30th Anniversary, with continuous releases of TCG products, merchandise, collaborations, and promotional content across Japan and worldwide.

This anniversary is not just about looking back. It represents how Pokémon has evolved across generations while staying deeply connected to its roots, making the 30th anniversary one of the most anticipated pop culture events of the decade.

Key reasons why the Pokémon 30th Anniversary excites global fans:

• A once-in-a-generation milestone: Reaching 30 years places Pokémon alongside the most enduring entertainment franchises in the world, appealing to both lifelong fans and new generations.
• Global, year-long celebration: Pokémon Day 2026 kicks things off, but official events, TCG releases, and merch drops are planned throughout the entire year.
• High-value collectible releases: Special Pokémon 30th anniversary TCG sets, promo cards, and boxes are designed with collectors and long-term value in mind.
• Strong nostalgia factor: From Kanto-era starters to reissued classic plushes, the anniversary taps directly into childhood memories for fans worldwide.
• Major brand collaborations: Expected partnerships with Uniqlo, McDonald’s, LEGO, adidas, and more bring Pokémon into fashion, food, and lifestyle spaces.
• Japan-exclusive content appeal: Limited Japanese merchandise and early releases make the anniversary especially exciting for fans interested in authentic Pokémon products from Japan.

With the date confirmed and excitement building, the next question is what fans can truly expect when the Pokémon 30th Anniversary celebrations begin in 2026.

2. What to expect from the Pokemon 30th anniversary date 2026?

The Pokemon 30th Anniversary 2026 is not a one-day celebration but a full-scale global campaign spanning the entire year. Fans can expect limited-edition Trading Card Game products, nostalgic merchandise, major brand collaborations, and new gaming experiences that honor Pokémon’s legacy while pushing it forward. Below is a breakdown of the most anticipated highlights, with clear opportunities for collectors and fans to secure authentic items early.

1. TCG Pokemon 30th anniversary box
2. OG Plushes & Merchandise for Pokemon 30th Anniversary
3. Promotional video games
4. Major 30th Pokemon collaborations worth expecting
5. Pokemon 30th anniversary 2026 official timeline and key dates

2.1 TCG Pokemon 30th Anniversary box

The Pokemon 30th Anniversary TCG box is expected to be the centerpiece of Pokémon’s collectible lineup in 2026, attracting both long-time fans and serious card collectors.

• For the English TCG, collectors are also looking ahead to the First Partner Illustration Collections, which will release throughout 2026. Series 1 launches on March 30, 2026 and features Starter Pokémon from Kanto, Sinnoh, and Alola, presented as Illustration Rare promo cards. Each collection includes a special promo booster pack containing three of nine Illustration Rare cards, along with two standard booster packs and a sticker sheet. Series 2 and Series 3 are scheduled to follow later in the year and will feature Starter Pokémon from the remaining six generations.
• For the Japanese market, a “Celebration Collection” set has been trademarked and is expected to release sometime in 2026 as part of Pokémon’s 30th anniversary celebrations. While specific contents have not yet been confirmed, the set is widely believed to serve as Japan’s primary anniversary release, separate from the English First Partner Illustration Collections.

For collectors prioritizing authenticity and long-term value, sealed Japanese Pokemon cards from anniversary sets remain one of the most sought-after segments of the Pokémon TCG market.

2.2 OG Plushes & Merchandise for Pokemon 30th Anniversary

Alongside plushes, collectors can expect new MonColle 30th Anniversary figures, featuring partner Pokémon from each generation. These items balance nostalgia with modern detailing, making them ideal for both display and gifting. For fans looking to build or expand a physical collection, official Pokemon figurines released for the 30th anniversary offer strong display value and long-term collectibility.

Life-sized 1997 Pikachu plush reissue

Browse the OG Takara Tomy Pokemon 30th Anniversary Home Pikachu Figure

Takara Tomy Pokemon 30th Anniversary Moncolle Travel Kit

The Takara Tomy Pokémon 30th Anniversary MonColle Travel Kit is designed for fans who want to enjoy authentic Pokémon figures wherever they go. This set combines highly detailed MonColle figures with a dedicated travel case that helps protect and organize the collection. Featuring official anniversary branding, it is ideal for both young fans and collectors who value portability without compromising display quality.

Shop Takara Tomy Pokemon 30th Anniversary Moncolle Travel Kit today

Bandai Pokemon 30th Anniversary Kids Candy Toy Box Set

The Bandai Pokémon 30th Anniversary Kids Candy Toy Box Set refreshes Bandai’s popular candy toy series to celebrate Pokémon’s 30-year milestone. Each box includes edible candy paired with a mini Pokémon figure, blending collectibility with playful charm. This release continues the legacy of Bandai Pokemon Kids "30th Anniversary" products, which are especially popular among collectors who value sealed sets and Japan-exclusive packaging.

Add Bandai Pokemon 30th Anniversary Kids Candy Toy Box Set to cart

Pokékmon 30th Anniversary Palm-Sized Pikachu Poke-Fuwa

The Pokémon 30th Anniversary Palm-Sized Pikachu Poké-Fuwa captures the warmth and charm of Pikachu in a compact, handheld plush design. Made with soft, premium materials, this anniversary edition is perfect for everyday comfort, display, or gifting. Its small size and official 30th anniversary detailing make it an easy-to-love collectible for fans of all ages.

Pre-order and get the earliest Pokékmon 30th Anniversary Palm-Sized Pikachu Poke-Fuwa

2.3 Promotional video games

While no brand-new mainline title has been fully revealed yet, Pokémon promotional video games and in-game events are expected to play a major role in the 30th anniversary celebration. Historically, milestone anniversaries include special distributions, limited-time events, and themed updates across existing Pokémon titles.

2.4 Major 30th Pokemon collaborations worth expecting

The Pokemon 30th Anniversary is expected to feature some of the biggest collaborations in the franchise’s history. Several partnerships are already confirmed or strongly anticipated based on past anniversaries.

Major collaborations to watch:

• Uniqlo UT: Watercolor-style Generation I apparel releasing March 2026
• LEGO: Pokémon-themed building sets appealing to both kids and adult collectors
• adidas: Special edition footwear and apparel inspired by classic Pokémon
• McDonald’s: Pokémon TCG promo cards and themed Happy Meals
• Pokémon TCG: Exclusive promo cards tied to retail and event collaborations

These collaborations extend Pokémon beyond games and cards into fashion, lifestyle, and everyday culture.

2.5 VOLTAGE Project (Pokemon ft. Hatsune Miku)

The VOLTAGE Project, officially titled Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku Project VOLTAGE and commonly known as PokéMiku, is a large-scale music and art collaboration between Pokémon and the iconic Vocaloid singer Hatsune Miku.

To celebrate Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary, “Departure Song” (たびだちのうた) was released on January 28, 2026 as part of the Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku Project VOLTAGE. Produced by Karasuya-sabou, the song and its accompanying music video pay tribute to the entire Pokémon main series, visually showcasing every Pokémon that has appeared on a game cover, symbolizing the journey and legacy of the franchise across all generations.

2.6 Pokemon 30th anniversary 2026 official timeline and key dates

Below is a clear overview of the most important Pokémon 30th anniversary 2026 dates confirmed so far:

• November 13, 2025: Pokémon Day 2026 Collection announced and 30th anniversary logo revealed
• January 1, 2026: Japanese 30th anniversary logo teaser animation released
• January 12, 2026: Korea reveals regional anniversary logo featuring Magikarp
• January 30, 2026: Pokémon Day 2026 Collection TCG release
• February 27, 2026: Official Pokémon 30th Anniversary date and Pokémon Day
• March 2026: Uniqlo UT Pokémon 30th Anniversary Collection launch
• March 30, 2026: First Partner Illustration Collection Series 1 release
• Later 2026: Series 2 and 3 of First Partner Illustration Collections

3. Where to shop authentic, Japanese-exclusive Pokemon 30th merchandise?

When it comes to buying Pokémon 30th Anniversary merchandise, fans have several well-known options. Official retailers like the Pokémon Center (Japan & Global), Amazon Japan, and selected partner stores such as Uniqlo UT or McDonald’s Japan often carry anniversary-related items and collaborations. These channels are reliable for standard releases and in-store experiences.

However, securing the correct Japanese limited editions, especially sealed TCG boxes, anniversary plushes, and early-release merchandise, can be challenging due to region locks, lottery systems, and shipping restrictions. That is why collectors who want guaranteed Japanese versions, fast international shipping, and pre-order access from day one choose Japan Figure International.

Why Japan Figure International is a trusted place to buy Pokémon 30th Anniversary items:

• 100% authentic Japanese products sourced from official manufacturers and distributors
• Early access to Japan-exclusive releases, including TCG boxes and anniversary merch
• Collector-safe packaging designed to protect sealed boxes and display items
• Transparent product information, including release dates and edition details
• Worldwide shipping, making Japanese Pokémon merchandise accessible globally

For collectors who value originality, condition, and long-term value, shopping Japanese-exclusive Pokémon 30th anniversary items through Japan Figure is a smart and secure choice.

The Pokemon 30th Anniversary is more than a celebration of time. It reflects three decades of storytelling, innovation, and global cultural impact that continues to unite fans of all ages. With exclusive Pokémon TCG releases, nostalgic Japanese merchandise, and high-profile collaborations rolling out throughout 2026, this anniversary offers rare opportunities for both collectors and everyday fans. Choosing authentic, Japanese-sourced products ensures better quality, originality, and long-term value.

FAQs - Common questions about about Pokémon 30th anniversary