When it comes to Halloween, Pokémon's ghostly lineup has always nailed the spooky vibe. Some are so cute you forget their eerie Pokédex entries, while others make their mischievous intentions clear from the start. Either way, they're a must-have for trainers who love a little supernatural flair during the season.
October is the perfect excuse to invite some creepy-crawly companions into your Pokémon community. Sure, decorations set the mood, but a pumpkin-shaped buddy is even better. And when the celebration involves surprising your fellow Pokémon, the fun practically multiplies.
Pumpkaboo and Gourgeist Arrive in Pokopia
Pokémon Pokopia is getting into the Halloween spirit with a special event running from October 17 through November 1. The star attractions are Pumpkaboo and Gourgeist, two fan-favorite Pokémon that players can befriend during the festivities. The event introduces a new activity centered on collecting Pumpkin Candy, which can be exchanged for furniture and other items inspired by a midnight festival.
To start, players will find Pumpkaboo near the Pokémon Center. Listening to its request kicks off the befriending process. Then, by gathering Pumpkin Candy, you can unlock seasonal rewards. These rewards aren't just for show—building the right habitat lets you befriend Gourgeist, adding another spooky pal to your town.
Trick-or-Treating Gets a Twist
The Pumpkin Candy collection involves a creative twist on trick-or-treating. Players transform into furniture or other objects that Pokémon like, then wait for a Pokémon to approach and surprise it. This earns you candy to spend at the Pokémon Center. It's a playful way to celebrate Halloween, turning the classic neighborhood tradition into a game of hide-and-seek with a spooky twist.
The rewards tie directly into the town itself. Collecting candy gives you new decorations, and using those decorations creates the perfect conditions for another Pokémon to move in. So the seasonal furniture isn't just festive—it's a key part of expanding your community.
Preparing for the Event
Before diving in, there are a few prerequisites. The official announcement requires version 2.0.1, completion of relevant town requests, reconstruction of the Pokémon Center, and learning the imitation ability from Zorua. You'll also need your Nintendo Switch 2's date and time set correctly, plus an internet connection when starting the event for the first time.
One reassuring detail: any Pokémon you befriend during the event will stick around after it ends. So Pumpkaboo and Gourgeist can become permanent residents, even once the candy collecting is over. For players who want Halloween to leave a lasting impression, that's a sweet bonus.
Pokémon Pokopia is available on Nintendo Switch 2, and the Halloween event kicks off October 17. There's still time to get your town ready for two new residents who'll fit right in among the pumpkins. For more spooky season fun, check out Sam's 30th anniversary shorts or standalone episodes to binge this Halloween.
