Pokemania is set to take over The Trafford Centre with the launch of a new event.
The Pokemon Company International has announced that Pokémon: Art Through the Ages - a special partnership with the shopping mall - will take place next month.
Pikachu himself will arrive on a special Pokemon bus to launch the event on October 17 and meet little ones.
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The special, treasure hunt-style event will run for around four weeks, until November 13, and visitors will be able to discover hidden art of the 151 Pokemon originally discovered in the Kanto region.
The Pokemon art will showcase a wide variety of artistic techniques and styles from across the ages, including cave paintings, stained glass and oil paintings for families and fans of all ages to enjoy free of charge.
Visitors who discover 10 hidden oil paintings and unscramble the secret code can visit the GAME store within Trafford Centre to collect a free double-sided, limited-edition poster - subject to availability.
There'll be additional activities inside a booklet for visitors to complete at their own leisure, and more goodies will be up for grabs, including a certificate for finding all 151 Kanto Pokemon.
Fans will also be able to hone their creative skills at the Orient Main Stage area where - also subject to availability - there will be special art workshops designed especially for children aged six to 11.
Guests who want to take a break from art hunting can meet Pikachu at scheduled times or watch Pokemon movies and episodes of the Pokemon animated series at the Orient Main Stage area. More details on bookings and availability for all of these activities will soon be available on The Trafford Centre website.
“We are thrilled to announce such a creative partnership with Trafford Centre,” said Peter Murphy, senior director of marketing at The Pokemon Company International.
“Exploration is an element which is key to Pokemon, and we can’t wait for kids and families to embark on their own journey to complete the Kanto Pokedex and see Pokemon depicted in such unique art styles.”
Bruce Gardner, brand experience director at Trafford Centre, said: “When initially sourcing a suitable location for this fantastic event, the Pokemon team were inspired by the unique architecture that is iconic of Trafford Centre.
"We have worked collaboratively with Pokemon, our partners such as Transport for Greater Manchester, Clear Channel and our retailers to ensure Pokemon fans can escape the ordinary and experience a unique, memorable and fun-filled day out. On behalf of the centre, we’re delighted to welcome Pokemon next month."
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