Many Pokemon fans may be disappointed to know that the annual Pikachu Outbreak festival that takes place in Yokohama, Japan has been canceled this year. This is due to the global coronavirus pandemic affecting many countries out in the world.
For those who don't know about the Pikachu Outbreak, it is a festival in which many people in inflatable Pikachu costumes roam the streets. There are multiple events that take place, such as Pikachu costume dances and special Pikachu-themed food that attendees can purchase.
Last year, Pokemon GO players that attended the event had access to special in-game bonuses during the multi-day event. However, Pokemon fans could participate in fun activities for the festival even without a smartphone. Below is footage from 2019's Pikachu Outbreak.
The cancellation of this event is sure to have disappointed many Pokemon fans living in Japan at this time. To cope with this loss, many Japanese Pokemon fans have taken to Twitter with the hashtag "#みんなのピカチュウ大量発生チュウ", which translates to "Everyone’s Pikachu Outbreak." Pokemon fans have used this hashtag to post photos and videos from previous years' Pikachu Outbreak events. With it, fans have been reminiscing on memories of the past as well as sharing these memories with all of those who cannot enjoy the Pikachu Outbreak in 2020.
Considering the current global state, it is likely that many festivals and live events such as the Pikachu Outbreak will continue to be canceled for the sake of the public's health. While most of the events in North America have already been canceled or postponed, other parts of the country are following suit to encourage social distancing.