Raids are a core part of Pokémon GO, featuring Legendary Pokémon and special events. Keeping track of the Pokémon GO raid schedule helps you plan and catch rare Pokémon efficiently. This guide covers the August 2025 raid lineup and tips to make the most of every raid. Get ready to join the action!

What is Pokemon Go Raid Hour

What-is-Pokemon-Go-Raid-Hour
Pokémon GO Raid Hour is a weekly event that gives trainers a chance to take on a featured raid boss appearing more frequently across gyms. It’s one of the key highlights in the Pokémon GO raid schedule, offering a packed hour of intense raid battles.
 
This event encourages trainers to team up—either in person or remotely—for intense, fast-paced battles. With higher raid frequency and a clear focus on one specific boss, Raid Hour creates a sense of excitement, community, and competition. If you’re tracking the Pokémon GO raid schedule, Raid Hour is the perfect time to plan your strategy and maximize rewards.

For those hunting rare Pokémon or aiming to power up their teams, Raid Hour is the perfect opportunity. Don’t forget to check the latest Pokémon GO raid schedule so you never miss a chance to catch your favorite raid boss.

Pokemon GO Raid Schedule and Line-up for August 2025

Pokémon GO updates its raid schedule every month, introducing new raid bosses and rotating existing ones. Below is the full August 2025 raid timetable—use it to plan ahead, catch rare Legendaries, and make the most of every battle.
Featured Pokémon/Event Raid Tier Shiny Available? Special Notes
August 4 – August11
Lugia  5-Star Raid Yes Raid Hour: August 6, Wednesday, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Mega Ampharos Mega Raids Yes
Omanyte (Max Monday) Mega Raid Yes
August 11 – August 18
Ho-Oh Five-Star Raids Yes Raid Hour: August 13, Wednesday, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Mega Slowbro Mega Raid Yes
Delightful Days: Taken Over (August 11 – August 17) Special Event Yes Focus on Team GO Rocket
Shadow Kyogre Debut (August 16, 6:00 AM – August 17, 10:00 PM) Shadow Raids Yes (1/20) 5-star Shadow Raid, Shiny debut available
Trubbish (Max Monday) Max Battles Yes
August 18 – August 25
Mega Pidgeot Mega Raids Yes
Dark Skies (August 18 – August 23) Special Event Yes GO Fest pre-event, increased Dynamax Pokémon and Max Particles
Daily Dynamax Pokémon Rotation (August 18-22)  Max Battles Yes Detailed rotation in main text
Pokémon GO Fest 2025: Max Finale (August 23-24) Major Event Yes Eternamax Eternatus Max Battle, 6-star Gigantamax Pokémon, 1-star Zacian/Zamazenta
Crowned Sword Zacian / Crowned Shield Zamazenta / Falinks (during GO Fest) 1-Star Raids Yes
August 25 – August 31
 Necrozma 5-Star Raids Yes Raid Hour: August 27, Wednesday, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM; Fused forms unavailable
Mega Salamence  Mega Raids Yes
Special Event Mega Raid Day (August 31) Yes
Chansey (Max Monday) Max Battles Yes
Shadow Regirock (Weekends) Shadow Raids Yes

While the raid schedule gives us a general overview, it’s important to note that some raids vary by region. Let’s explore the regional differences that might impact your local gameplay.

Regional Differences of Pokemon Go Raid Schedule

Regional-Differences-of-Pokemon-Go-Raid-Schedule

In Pokemon Go, regional differences can affect raid schedules and availability, adding unique dynamics to raiding activities across the world. Here are a few examples of regional differences in raid schedules and availability:

1. Time Zone Variations

Pokemon Go operates on a real-time basis. In other words, schedules can vary depending on the time zone in which a player is located. So manage your time and ensure that raids are available during peak playing hours.
2. Event Timing
Pokemon Go frequently organizes special events that feature increased raid spawns, exclusive raid bosses, or unique raid rewards. These events often have specific start and end times, and the timing can vary between regions. Niantic, the developer of Pokemon Go, may stagger the events to accommodate different time zones and provide an equitable opportunity for players worldwide.

3. Seasonal Variations

Pokemon Go Raid schedules and availability may also differ depending on the season or climate in a particular region. For example, event-themed raids tied to holidays or specific weather conditions may be more prevalent in certain areas. Additionally, raid activity may be influenced by regional events or festivals that impact player participation and availability.

4. Player Density and Activity

Regions with higher player density or more active Pokemon Go communities may experience more frequent raid battles and a greater number of trainers participating in raids. This can be due to a larger player base, increased social engagement, or a more competitive raiding scene. As a result, raids in these areas may be more prevalent and easier to organize.

5. Cultural Preferences

In some regions, players may have specific time slots or routines for raiding. This leads to more concentrated raid activity during certain hours of the day. Additionally, cultural events or norms may impact the frequency or timing of raid battles in certain areas.

Raid Hour Mechanics of Pokemon Go Raid Schedule

Raid-Hour-Mechanics-of-Pokemon-Go-Raid-Schedule

Raid Hour is a special event in Pokemon Go that lasts for one hour and features increased raid spawns, altered raid egg timers, and enhanced raid boss availability. During Raid Hour, the game mechanics are adjusted to provide trainers with a greater opportunity to engage in raid battles and encounter specific raid bosses.

Raid Spawns

Firstly, raid spawns are significantly increased during Raid Hour. This means that more gyms will have active raid battles, allowing trainers to participate in multiple raids within the designated hour. The increased number of raid spawns increases the chances of encountering and participating in raid battles.

Raid Egg Timers

Secondly, raid egg timers, which indicate the time remaining until a raid battle begins, will change during Raid Hour. Typically, raid eggs have a timer of around 60 minutes before hatching into a raid boss. However, during Raid Hour, the raid egg timers are reduced, usually to a shorter duration like 15 or 30 minutes. This allows trainers to quickly identify and gather at raid gyms for battles without waiting for an extended period.

Specific Raid Boss

Lastly, Raid Hour focuses on a specific raid boss, resulting in enhanced availability. The featured raid boss becomes more prevalent during the event, increasing the likelihood of encountering and challenging that particular Pokemon. This concentrated availability allows trainers to focus their efforts on battling and potentially capturing the featured raid boss.

Overall, Raid Hour mechanics create a dynamic and intense raiding experience for trainers. It encourages trainers to come together, engage in multiple raids, and strive to defeat and capture powerful Pokemon. Moreover, it fosters a sense of community and excitement.

How to Prepare for Pokemon Go Raid Events 

How-to-Prepare-for-Pokemon-Go-Raid-Events

Successful participation in Pokemon Go raid events requires careful preparation. Here are some steps to help you prepare for it:

1、Assess Raid Boss Weaknesses: Research the raid boss’s type and weaknesses. Knowing its weaknesses will help you select the most effective counters for the battle. Use online resources, Pokemon Go websites, or apps to identify the best counters for the raid boss you’ll be facing.

2、Power Up and Evolve Pokemon: Strengthen and evolve Pokemon that have type advantages against the raid boss. You can invest Stardust and Candy to power up your Pokemon’s levels and unlock their potential.

3、Stock Up on Healing Items: Ensure you have an ample supply of healing items like Potions, Revives, and Max Revives. Raid battles can be challenging, and your Pokemon may faint during the battle. Having enough healing items will allow you to quickly revive and restore your team.

4、Collect Raid Passes: Raid events often require Raid Passes to participate. Make sure you have sufficient Raid Passes to take part in multiple raids during the event. You can earn Raid Passes by spinning Gym Photo Discs or by completing certain research tasks.

5、Plan Your Route: If the raid event includes multiple raid gyms, plan your route in advance to optimize your time and raid participation. This will help you maximize the number of raids you can participate in during the event.

6、Coordinate with Remote Raiding: If you can’t physically be present at raid locations, take advantage of the remote raiding feature. This allows you to participate in raids regardless of your physical location.

How to Optimize Raiding Efficiency During Pokemon Go Raids

In Pokémon GO, improving raid efficiency often means joining raids from different locations. However, many Trainers face challenges—whether it’s due to inconvenient geography or bad weather—that make it difficult to participate in the latest Pokémon GO raid events. If these obstacles are holding you back, consider usingiFoneTool MapGo! With just a few clicks, this tool allows you to virtually move your location anywhere, ensuring you never miss an important raid again.
🌟 Key Features of MapGo:
  • Different Modes: Offers the ability to jump directly to a destination and simulate movement between different locations on Pokemon GO.
  • No Jailbreak or Risk: You can change location without jailbreak, so you don’t need to worry about the risk of device and personal information.
  • Good Compatibility: Works well with location-based social apps and AR games such as Pokemon GO, DQ Walk, Snapchat, Life360, etc.
  • Easy-to-Use Interface: Accessible even for users without technical expertise.
  • Free Trial: Provides several free chances to use as well as a first subscription discount.

iFoneTool MapGo isn’t just for Pokémon Go; it’s a versatile solution for various location-based apps, including other AR games and social platforms. It provides seamless GPS mobility simulation with customizable paths.

Here’s how easy it is to get started:

Step 1: Click the button below to download and install iFoneTool MapGo . Once installed, open MapGo and click the Start button.

ifonetool mapgo
MapGo – Change Your Pokémon Go Location in 1-Click

Raid anywhere, catch region-exclusive Pokémon, and explore new places—all without leaving home.

Step 2: Connect your phone to your computer by USB, and then you will see your location on the map.

connect your phone

Step 3: Click the location you want to go on the map or enter where you’d like to go on the top left. And then click “Move”.

change location on mapgo

Now you can get a new fake location! It will also be updated on your phone map. This means you can fully immerse yourself in every Pokemon GO Raid Hour, no matter where you are!

How to Host Raid Parties During Pokemon Go Raid Schedule

How-to-Host-Raid-Parties-During-Pokemon-Go-Raid-Schedule

Hosting raid parties can be a rewarding experience for trainers who wish to bring their local Pokemon Go community together. Here are some tips on how to successfully host raid parties during Pokemon Go raid events:

1、Utilize communication platforms: Create or join local Pokemon Go community groups on platforms like Discord, Facebook, or WhatsApp. These platforms provide an excellent way to communicate with fellow trainers, share raid information, and coordinate raid parties effectively.

2、Set a meeting point: Decide on a central meeting point where all participants can gather before the raid. This could be a popular PokéStop, a park, or any other easily accessible location near the raid gym.

3、Establish a schedule: Determine specific raid times and create a schedule for the raid party. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and knows when to gather for each raid battle.

4、Invite friends and fellow trainers: Reach out to friends who play Pokemon Go and invite them to join your raid party. Encourage them to bring along other trainers they know.

5、Share raid strategies: Before each raid battle, discuss the raid boss’s strengths, weaknesses, and recommended counters. Share strategies and tips with participants to increase the chances of success. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of teamwork and enhances the raiding experience.

6、Be prepared: Ensure that you have enough raid passes to participate in multiple raids during the raid party. Stock up on healing items like Potions and Revives to keep your Pokemon team in good shape. Encourage participants to do the same.

7、Be a good host: Take responsibility for organizing the raid battles, ensuring everyone is ready, and initiating the raids on time. Remember to be patient, supportive, and helpful to all participants.

✍ Conclusion:
Pokemon Go raids offer thrilling battles and a chance to catch rare Pokémon—but mastering the Pokemon Go raid schedule, mechanics, and preparation tips is the key to success. Whether you’re hosting raid parties or tackling bosses across regions, planning ahead makes all the difference. Want to make raiding even easier? Try a powerful auto catcher like the MapGo catcher app—it transforms how you play. Click the button below to try it free today!

When are raid schedules announced?

Raid schedules are typically announced by Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go, through official announcements, social media updates, and in-game notifications. Keep an eye on these sources for the latest information on upcoming raid schedules.

Do raid schedules vary by region?

Yes, raid schedules can vary by region to accommodate different time zones and player demographics. Niantic aims to provide an equitable raiding experience worldwide, but specific raid events and timings may differ to suit local player bases and preferences.

How often do raid schedules change?

Raid schedules can change frequently in Pokémon Go. Niantic regularly introduces new raid bosses, events, and bonuses, which can impact the schedule. It’s important to stay updated on official announcements to know about any changes to the raid schedule.

Are raid schedules affected by seasons or events?

Yes, raid schedules can be influenced by seasons and special events. Pokémon Go often features themed events tied to holidays, weather conditions, or in-game celebrations. These events may bring changes to raid availability, spawn rates, or exclusive raid bosses.

Can remote raiding be done during all raid schedules?

Yes, remote raiding can generally be done during raid schedules. Remote raiding allows trainers to participate in raids from a distance, expanding raiding opportunities. However, it’s important to note any specific restrictions or requirements mentioned during the raid schedule announcements.