Pokémon Day in New York City marks 30th anniversary

Fans across New York City gathered for Pokémon Day as the franchise reached its 30th anniversary, with events to buy, trade and bid on original items; Trainer Court, a local shop that began online, hosted activities and is giving away merchandise after receiving community support following a January robbery.

Pokémon Day events drew fans across New York City as the franchise reached its 30th anniversary. People waited in line to buy, trade and bid on original items at special events. Trainer Court, founded by Courtney Chin and grown from an e-commerce bedroom business into a Meatpacking District storefront, took part in celebrations. The store was robbed at gunpoint in January of items police said were worth about $100,000; two men were later arrested on robbery and conspiracy charges. Key details: - Fans across New York City attended special events to buy, trade and bid on original Pokémon items. - Trainer Court (formerly Poké Court) began as an online shop and now operates a Meatpacking District storefront. - In January, police said the store was robbed at gunpoint of about $100,000 in items; two men were arrested on robbery and conspiracy charges. - The store reported receiving care packages and messages from around the world and is distributing $50,000 worth of Pokémon merchandise as a thank-you. - Voice actress Sarah Natochenny and content creator Lucky Card Erik were among attendees, and fans noted the franchise spans multiple generations. Summary: The anniversary events highlighted the franchise's cultural reach and brought together collectors, creators and families. Trainer Court's donation and the outpouring of messages underscored community support after the reported January robbery. Undetermined at this time.