Getting started with Pokemon GO raids in January 2025? You’re in for some good opportunities to catch powerful Pokemon. This month brings Palkia and Deoxys back to 5-star raids and introduces Mega Gallade for the first time. Whether you’re hunting for shinies or just want to fill out your Pokedex, there’s something worth raiding for everyone. So, with that, let’s break down everything you need to know about raids this month, from schedules to strategies for success.
Pokemon GO Current Raid Bosses (January 2025)
Let’s break down what you can expect from each raid tier this month:
5-Star Legendary Raids
The 5-Star raid lineup features some fan-favorite legendary Pokemon. Palkia returns early in the month, followed by both Attack and Defense Forme Deoxys. All featured legendaries can be shiny, so this is your chance to add some rare variants to your collection.
| Dates | Pokemon | Image |
| Dec 24 – Jan 4 | Giratina (Altered Forme) | |
| Jan 4-16 | Palkia |  |
| Jan 16-24 | Attack & Defense Forme Deoxys |  |
| Jan 24-Feb 6 | Dialga |  |
Mega Raids
This month brings the exciting debut of Mega Gallade to Pokemon GO. You’ll also have chances to battle Mega Lopunny and Mega Medicham. Remember that Mega raids typically need 4-6 trainers for success.
| Dates | Pokemon | Image |
| 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
These raids are perfect for solo players or small groups. You can usually complete 1-Star raids alone, while 3-Star raids might need 2-3 trainers depending on your level and counters.
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 Pokemon from various regions. This month focuses heavily on Kanto starters and some popular picks like Machop and Wooloo.
| Dates | Featured Pokemon |
| 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 |
Pokemon GO Raid Hour Schedule
Raid Hours happen every Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM local time. During this hour, most gyms will feature the current 5-Star raid boss.
| Date | Featured Pokemon | Image |
| Jan 1 | Giratina (Altered Forme) |  |
| Jan 8 | Palkia | |
| Jan 15 | Palkia | |
| Jan 22 | Deoxys (Both Formes) | |
| Jan 29 | Dialga | |
Pokemon GO Max Mondays
Max Monday events run every Monday from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM local time, featuring special Dynamax raid bosses.
| Date | Featured Pokemon |
| Jan 6 | Machop |
| Jan 13 | Squirtle |
| Jan 20 | TBA |
| Jan 27 | TBA |
What are Pokemon GO Raids and How to Participate
Raids are special battles where you team up with other trainers to defeat powerful Pokemon. To join a raid, you need a raid pass. You get one free raid pass daily by spinning a gym photo disc, or you can buy premium passes from the shop.
Remote raids are also available using Remote Raid Passes, letting you join raids from anywhere. However, remote raiders deal less damage than in-person participants, so keep this in mind when planning your raid strategy.
Remember to check the boss’s weaknesses and bring appropriate counter Pokemon to maximize your chances of success. After defeating a raid boss, you’ll get a chance to catch it using Premier Balls. The number of Premier Balls you receive depends on factors like damage dealt, gym control, and friendship level with other raiders.