Pokémon is marking its 30th anniversary with a unique and immersive collaboration alongside the Natural History Museum in London, bringing the game’s beloved world into an educational and ecological setting. The partnership—dubbed Pokécology—blends Pokémon’s imaginative universe with real‑world natural history and scientific curiosity through exclusive exhibits, merchandise, and collectibles.
What Is Pokécology?
Pokécology is a special pop‑up event and retail experience launched by The Pokémon Company International together with the Natural History Museum’s Cranbourne Boutique. Running from January 26 to April 19, 2026, the activation explores Pokémon species and their habitats through the lens of ecology—inspired by the Japanese book Pokécology: An Illustrated Guide to Pokémon Ecology, which studies how Pokémon interact with their environments.
The theme encourages fans of all ages to think about nature, biodiversity, and environmental science alongside the imaginative creatures they’ve grown up with.
Exclusive Pikachu at the Museum TCG Promo Card
At the heart of the celebration is a brand‑new oversized Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) promo card titled “Pikachu at the Museum.” The card features Pikachu within the museum setting and reflects the ecological and historical aesthetic of the event.
This promo card is exclusive to the collaboration and will be available:
As a gift with purchase at the pop‑up shop from January 26 to April 19, 2026, limited to one per customer.
At select UK retailers starting January 30, 2026, as a gift with qualifying purchases.
While the card is large and geared toward collectors and fans, its oversized format means it won’t be legal in official TCG competition play, though it remains a highly desirable collector’s item.
Limited‑Edition Pokécology Merchandise
The Pokécology pop‑up offers a wide range of limited‑edition items inspired by both the Pokémon world and the Natural History Museum’s iconic architecture and exhibits. Merchandise includes:
Art prints and scientific‑style illustrations featuring Pokémon in ecological settings.
Apparel and accessories—including clothing, tote bags, and pins designed with Pokécology motifs.
Stationery, posters, and themed collectibles celebrating Pokémon habitats.
Plush toys and quality collectibles reflecting nature‑inspired Pokémon designs.
Aesthetic cues for the collection draw from the Natural History Museum’s Hintze Hall and botanical ceiling panels, incorporating Pokémon species associated with grass, water, and bug types.
Online Access & Worldwide Shipping
Although the physical pop‑up has sold out its free ticketed slots, the collaboration will also offer products online. Select Pokécology merchandise will be available on the Pokémon Center UK online store and the Natural History Museum’s online shop, both of which allow worldwide shipping while supplies last.
Fans who can’t attend in person still have the chance to collect items from the pop‑up—though popular pieces are expected to sell quickly.
Supporting Science and Conservation
A portion of the proceeds from the Pokécology collaboration will support the Natural History Museum’s ongoing scientific research and conservation efforts, aligning Pokémon’s imaginative world with real‑world environmental stewardship.
This partnership not only celebrates Pokémon’s cultural legacy over three decades but also encourages fans to engage with ecology, nature, and science.
Event Details at a Glance
Event: Pokémon × Natural History Museum Pokécology Pop‑Up
Theme: Pokémon ecology and natural habitats
Pop‑Up Runs: January 26 – April 19, 2026
Location: Natural History Museum’s Cranbourne Boutique, London
Exclusive Item: “Pikachu at the Museum” oversized Pokémon TCG promo card
Online Sales: Pokémon Center UK & Natural History Museum online shops
