Ready to kick off the new year with thrilling Pokémon GO raids? January 2025 brings exciting opportunities to catch powerful Pokémon, including the return of fan-favorites like Palkia and Deoxys in 5-Star raids. Plus, Mega Gallade makes its highly anticipated debut. Whether you’re hunting for shinies or filling out your Pokédex, there’s something for everyone this month. Here’s everything you need to know about the January 2025 raid schedule, strategies, and more.
Pokémon GO Raid Bosses (January 2025)
5-Star Legendary Raids
This month’s 5-Star raid lineup is packed with legendary Pokémon. All featured legendaries can appear as shiny variants, offering a rare collectible opportunity.
| Dates | Pokémon |
|---|---|
| Dec 24 – Jan 4 | Giratina (Altered Forme) |
| Jan 4 – 16 | Palkia (Origin Forme) |
| Jan 16 – 24 | Attack & Defense Forme Deoxys |
| Jan 24 – Feb 6 | Dialga (Origin Forme) |
Mega Raids
Mega Gallade makes its debut this month, joining a lineup of other powerful Mega Evolution Pokémon. These raids typically require 4-6 trainers for success.
| Dates | Pokémon |
| Dec 26 – Jan 4 | Mega Abomasnow |
| Jan 4 – 16 | Mega Lopunny |
| Jan 16 – 24 | Mega Gallade |
| Jan 24 – Feb 6 | Mega Medicham |
1-Star and 3-Star Raids
Perfect for solo players or small groups, these raids offer a mix of easier battles and shiny potential.
3-Star Raids:
- Bombirdier (shiny available)
- Dewgong
- Mightyena
- Absol (shiny available)
1-Star Raids:
- Pancham (shiny available)
- Snorunt (shiny available)
- Blitzle (shiny available)
- Galarian Zigzagoon (shiny available)
- Alolan Rattata (shiny available)
Max Battles
Max Battles feature Dynamax Pokémon from various regions. This month focuses on Kanto starters and other fan-favorites like Machop and Wooloo.
| Dates | Featured Pokémon |
| Jan 6 – 13 | Machop, Gastly, Krabby, Wooloo, Cryogonal |
| Jan 13 – 20 | Machop, Gastly, Krabby, Squirtle, Cryogonal |
| Jan 20 – 27 | Charmander, Beldum, Cryogonal, Scorbunny |
| Jan 27 – Feb 3 | Bulbasaur, Wooloo, Cryogonal, Grookey |
Pokémon GO Event Schedules
Raid Hour Schedule
Every Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM local time, gyms will feature the current 5-Star raid boss.
| Date | Featured Pokémon |
| Jan 1 | Giratina (Altered Forme) |
| Jan 8 | Palkia (Origin Forme) |
| Jan 15 | Palkia (Origin Forme) |
| Jan 22 | Deoxys (Both Formes) |
| Jan 29 | Dialga (Origin Forme) |
Max Mondays
Max Monday events occur every Monday from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM local time, featuring Dynamax raid bosses.
| Date | Featured Pokémon |
| Jan 6 | Machop |
| Jan 13 | Squirtle |
| Jan 20 | TBA |
| Jan 27 | TBA |
What Are Pokémon GO Raids and How to Participate?
Raids are special battles where trainers team up to defeat powerful Pokémon. To join a raid, you’ll need a Raid Pass. You can get one free pass daily by spinning a gym’s photo disc or purchase Premium Raid Passes in the shop.
Remote Raids: You can also participate remotely using Remote Raid Passes, but remote raiders deal less damage than in-person participants. Keep this in mind when planning your strategy.
Tips for Success
- Know the Weaknesses: Research the raid boss’s weaknesses and prepare a strong counter team.
- Team Up: Larger groups increase your chances of success, especially for 5-Star and Mega raids.
- Earn Premier Balls: The number of Premier Balls you earn depends on factors like damage dealt, gym control, and friendship level with other trainers.
After defeating the raid boss, use your Premier Balls to attempt a catch. Good luck, and may your shiny hunts be fruitful!
Get ready to make January 2025 an epic month in Pokémon GO! Whether you’re after powerful legendaries, shiny Megas, or rare Dynamax Pokémon, there’s plenty to keep you busy in the raid scene. Happy raiding!
