Nearly 500 Pokémon fans gathered at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds on Feb. 28 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Pokémon.
PokéFair, held in Gaithersburg, hosted a mini-convention that drew a crowd of collectors, artists and cosplayers eager to share their love of Pokémon.
Vendors filled the venue with handmade goods inspired by the Japanese franchise, which launched in 1996. Craft makers sold jewelry, handmade plushies, and other goods, as well as original pieces featuring fan-favorite characters. Tables lined the space with Pokémon trading cards, drawing collectors searching for rare finds and competitive players looking to strengthen their decks.
Cosplayers dressed as trainers and popular Pokémon characters competed in a cosplay competition, posed for photos and connected with fellow fans. Children traded cards while longtime enthusiasts discussed strategy and shared stories about how they first discovered the series.
PokéFair offered a smaller, local alternative to large-scale conventions, giving Montgomery County residents a chance to celebrate the franchise close to home. Organizers said the goal was to create a welcoming space for fans of all ages.
The event reflects the continued popularity of Pokémon three decades after its debut, as new generations of fans join longtime collectors in keeping the community active. The next larger and main Pokéfair event will be held June 20-21 at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds.
