Ekans Leads Pokemon's Year of the Snake Celebration

Pokémon is ringing in the Lunar New Year of 2025 with a special celebration of the Year of the Snake, featuring beloved snake Pokémon, Ekans and Arbok. Dive into the details of their captivating animated short and discover how The Pokémon Company is making this Lunar New Year memorable for fans worldwide.

Pokemon Celebrates the Year of the Snake

Releases an Animated Short, Featuring a Shiny Ekans and Arbok

On January 29, 2025, Pokémon's YouTube channel unveiled a heartwarming animated short to commemorate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake. This delightful video showcases a playful exchange between two Ekans, one of which boasts a stunning Shiny variant. The Shiny Ekans, enchanted by the world around it, accidentally falls 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, has tugged at the heartstrings of many 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 two Ekans. Another fan highlighted the universal bond of friendship, noting how the Ekans' differing appearances did not hinder their immediate connection.

In addition to the animated short, The Pokémon Company has planned a variety of events and merchandise to enhance the Lunar New Year festivities for players.

Pokemon GO’s Lunar New Year Event

Kicking off on January 9, 2025, Pokémon GO launched its Lunar New Year event, boosting the encounter and Shiny rates for snake-like Pokémon during the Dual Destiny season, spanning from December 3, 2024, to March 4, 2025.

Players can look forward to increased encounters with Ekans, Onix, Gyarados, Dratini, Dunsparce, Snivy, and Darumaka. Although Darumaka's design leans more towards a humanoid form, it's inspired by the Daruma doll, symbolizing good luck and perseverance.

The event also introduces themed Field Research tasks and special 2 km Eggs, featuring Pokémon such as Makuhita, Nosepass, Meditite, Duskull, and Skorupi. Additionally, a themed Timed Research offers players the chance to earn Zygarde Cells, crucial for changing Zygarde's forms.