The 2026 Pokemon North America International Championships returns to New Orleans, Louisiana, on June 12-14, 2026, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. This is one of only three official International Championships on the global Pokemon competitive circuit, and it marks the third consecutive year that New Orleans has hosted this flagship event. Thousands of the best Pokemon players from across North America and around the world will descend on the Crescent City to compete for Championship Points, prize money, and coveted invitations to the Pokemon World Championships. If you are a competitive player, a Pokemon TCG collector, or simply a fan of the franchise, this is the single biggest Pokemon event you can attend in the United States.
The NAIC features official tournament competition across multiple game formats including the Pokemon Trading Card Game, Pokemon Video Game Championships (VGC), Pokemon GO, and Pokemon UNITE. Players compete in age divisions ranging from Junior to Senior to Masters, with top finishers earning Championship Points that count toward World Championships qualification. The tournament floor is massive, accommodating thousands of active competitors at any given time, and the energy in the hall is electric as matches unfold on feature tables with live commentary streamed to audiences worldwide.
Beyond the competitive tournament, the NAIC offers an incredible experience for spectators and casual fans. The Pokemon Center pop-up shop sells exclusive event merchandise, plush toys, apparel, and limited-edition accessories that are only available at International Championships. Side events and open tournaments run throughout the weekend, giving non-qualified players a chance to compete and earn prizes. The vendor and artist area features dealers selling Pokemon TCG singles, sealed product, graded slabs, custom playmats, and artwork. Expect to find rare promo cards, vintage first edition Base Set and other classic era cards, and the latest Scarlet and Violet era releases.
The event runs all three days with doors typically opening in the early morning and competition continuing into the evening. Specific round schedules and registration details are published on the official Pokemon Championships website. Registration for competitors is handled through the Pokemon Organized Play system, and spectator admission is free, making this an accessible event for fans who simply want to soak up the atmosphere, shop for cards, and watch top-level play.
The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is located along the Mississippi River in downtown New Orleans at 900 Convention Center Boulevard. The venue is within walking distance of the French Quarter, the Warehouse District, and hundreds of hotels and restaurants. Paid parking is available at the convention center and nearby garages. The New Orleans streetcar provides convenient public transit access.
Who should attend? Competitive Pokemon players at every level, TCG collectors looking for rare cards and exclusive merchandise, families with Pokemon-loving kids, and anyone who wants to experience the spectacle of international-level Pokemon competition. Plan ahead by booking your hotel early, as rooms near the convention center sell out fast during NAIC weekend. Bring a playmat and deck if you want to participate in side events, and arrive early each day for the best shopping opportunities at the Pokemon Center store. Visit championships.pokemon.com for the full schedule, registration information, and streaming details.