Celebrate Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary at a Special Target Store Event

Sep 22

If you thought that the fun was over for Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary, think again!

Target is hosting a Pokémon-themed event on September 27, 2026 from 12pm-4pm at participating stores where Pokémon fans can relive the magic of this generational release.

Those who attend will be able to draw their own Pokémon TCG card, take advantage of themed photo ops and giveaways, demo Pokémon Pokopia on the Nintendo Switch 2, and shop general Pokémon merch.

Are 30th Celebration TCG products included in the Target event?

While the official Target store event page for the “Celebrate 30 Years of Pokémon” event doesn’t specifically mention Pokémon cards outside of the “create your own” Pokémon card activity, rumors are already circulating online that the event will involve Pokémon TCG products.

One fan-shared screenshot provides a much more detailed rundown of what to expect from the Target store event.

Assuming this screenshot is true and not fabricated, guests won’t just be taking pictures and doing arts and crafts: they’ll have access to special event-exclusive products like an acrylic card holder, potentially the Mewtwo 30th Celebration promo, and the chance to purchase 30th Celebration tins (presumably the ex tins) at MSRP.

30th Celebration ex Tin [Set of 2] (International Version)

ME: 30th Celebration

Market Value

Buy on TCGPlayer Buy on Amazon

Now, despite this information making its rounds online, there is one thing that doesn’t quite add up about it: the special promo trading card. 30th Celebration’s store promo is the Mewtwo promo with the “What’s Your Favorite?” stamp on it.

However, according to Pokémon’s own official announcement about the promo, it won’t be available at participating stores until October 2, 2026. Additionally, Target isn’t even on the list of stores that should be getting the promo.

That being said, Target’s official store event page does confirm that there will be giveaways at the event (while supplies last). Will these be Pokémon TCG related, or something else entirely?

I guess we won’t know for certain until the event kicks off on Sunday, September 27th. But until then, try not to get your hopes up. Instead, plan for a fun local Pokémon-themed gathering that sounds ideal for fans of any age. Indeed, it’s more the sort of general Pokémon-themed party I had hoped for from the 30th Celebration midnight release that I attended. While so many may be focused on the pulls, the fun of Pokémon isn’t just about what you get – it’s about the memories, adventures, and experiences you share along the way!