Pokémon Go has been played by millions of people and its collectible characters are popping up in our parks and other locations all around Nutley. The phenomenon has attracted a diverse crowd of gamers not only in Nutley but internationally. To celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the game a Pokémon Go Fest has been announced as a worldwide event by the creators of this exciting game!

“We encourage residents to have fun with the game but to always keep safety at the forefront of their adventure” stated Mayor Tucci. With an abundance of Pokéstops in Memorial Park 1, we are hosting a safe evening for gamers to replenish their arsenal of Pokéballs and find, capture and train Pokémon.

Explore four themed rotating habitat hours, each with a corresponding challenge, and work together with trainers from around the world to unlock bonuses in the Global Challenge Arena. Encounter over 75 species of Pokémon in the wild, in raids and by completing special research tasks.

OTHER FREE ACTIVITIES IN THE GAME INCLUDE:

• Featured Pokémon appearing in the wild, including a special costumed Pikachu!
• Four rotating habitats on Saturday, featuring themed wild Pokémon and on-map visual effects.
• All Lure Modules activated during the event will last for three hours.
• 1/2 Hatch Distance when Eggs are placed in an Incubator during event hours—plus, certain event Pokémon appearing in 7k Eggs.
• Trainer photos featured in the Today View.

In the early stages of the game, players walk around using their mobile phones looking for Pokémon (cute “pocket monsters”) that they can capture. As players gain more experience they can evolve their Pokémon into more powerful creatures, and they can also bring their Pokémon to locations where they can battle against each other. Join us in Memorial Park 1 on Saturday, July 17, 2021 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. and experience the craze that has everyone up and moving. 

“We continue to evolve our recreation programs and events with the ever changing time” stated Mayor Tucci.  One of the main advantages of the game is that it encourages players to get up and walk around, which is a welcome change from “sit in front of your TV with a controller and don’t move for the next several hours”. It is suggested that children 18 years and under be accompanied by an adult. 

Food items including Mister Softee Ice Cream Truck, Hot Dog Truck, candy and snacks will be available for purchase.  Bring your friends and family for some summer fun in the park!

If you need further information please contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 973-284-4966, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.