How to get Shiny Celebi in Pokemon GO – start time & date

Niantic is celebrating the upcoming release of the Secrets of the Jungle movie by bringing shiny Celebi into Pokemon GO for a limited time. Here is how you can get your hands on the rare mythical creature.

The Pokemon franchise is gearing up to release its 23rd theatrical film Secrets of the Jungle. To celebrate, Pokemon Go players will get a special themed event in December as a tie-in to the movie.

Trainers who participate in the celebration will get a chance to catch a Shiny version of the Mythical ‘mon Celebi. Here is everything you need to know about adding rare character to your Pokedex.

The Pokemon Company

The Shiny Celebi stars alongside Zarude in the upcoming film Secrets of the Jungle.

Pokemon Go Shiny Celebi event start time & date

Niantic surprised fans on December 3 by announcing a special in-game event based on the upcoming film. While Sword & Shield got a similar promo for Shiny Celebi back in August, GO players will also now have a chance at getting their hands on the rare ‘mon.

The event will take place on December 14, and requires fans to complete a set of Special Research tasks to encounter the rare Pokemon. The celebration will officially kick off at 8:00AM local time according to the announcement written on their website.

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Interestingly, iconic Team Rocket characters Jessie and James make their return appearance as a part of the research that leads to players finding the Shiny monster.

How to get Shiny Celebi in Pokemon GO

Players looking to capture Celebi will have to complete Special Research. After logging in after 8:00AM on the 14th, they will be presented with tasks that will be led by the Team Rocket duo. Completing them will reward you with the creature, though it’s currently unknown when the event will end.

“A limited-time Special Research story inspired by the movie will be available! Complete this research line to encounter Shiny Celebi. In an odd twist of events, Jessie and James will be guiding you through this Special Research story instead of Professor Willow! You’ll need to prepare for trouble for this one! Stay tuned for updates,” Niantic wrote.

Game Freak / The Pokemon Company

Pokemon GO players have the chance to catch a Shiny Celebi.

The requirements for completing the Special Research includes beating Jessie & James fourr times, as well as hatching three eggs. Popular outlet LeekDuck has broken down the steps in a nifty infographic.

The Pokemon film will officially hit theaters on December 25 in Japan. North American viewers will have to wait a little longer as it’s set to debut sometime in 2021. The epic December GO event will tide fans over until then though.

• Read More: Pokemon GO to celebrate series’ 25th anniversary with special Kanto event

Trainers wanting the Shiny Gen II character should mark their calendars for December 14.