Pikmin Bloom MINI WALK and Pop-Up Tent Event Transform San Francisco’s Union Square This Summer

Nintendo and Niantic’s beloved Pikmin franchise is stepping into the spotlight in downtown San Francisco with a two-month Pikmin Bloom MINI WALK and a series of interactive pop-up tent events, blending mobile gaming, augmented reality, and community engagement in Union Square.

The iconic Union Square district welcomes explorers of all ages to participate in these immersive experiences, which highlight both the Pikmin Bloom mobile app and the vibrant businesses and landmarks of this historic neighborhood. Starting May 23 and running through July 23, Pikmin fans can join the Pikmin Bloom MINI WALK at Union Square, located at 333 Post Street.

Pikmin Bloom, developed by Niantic and published by Nintendo for smartphones, invites players to accompany adorable Pikmin on real-world adventures.

The app, available for free on compatible devices, encourages users to explore their surroundings, find virtual seedlings, and nurture their plantlike companions, blending everyday walking with whimsical, location-based gameplay. The MINI WALK event encourages players to use their mobile devices and visit seven unique Special Spots within the Union Square area.

These locations, accessible via the Pikmin Bloom app, reward explorers with in-app Gold Seedlings.

For example, visiting certain local shops could reveal exclusive seedlings, such as the Macaron Decor Pikmin.

This event marks Union Square as the second U.S.

location to host the Pikmin Bloom MINI WALK since the smartphone app’s debut, further strengthening Pikmin Bloom’s presence in major American cities. In addition to the in-app experience, Nintendo and the Union Square Alliance are hosting a Pikmin Pop-Up Tent Event, running May 23–26 and July 4–6 from 11 a.m.

to 6 p.m.

at 333 Post Street.

The tent offers visitors a physical MINI WALK map, an opportunity to take photos with the Pikmin Bloom AR Cam, and a chance to check in at the My Nintendo kiosk to earn 100 My Nintendo Platinum Points (Nintendo Account required; terms apply).

Attendees are encouraged to stay vigilant, as Pikmin may appear outside of the virtual world during their visit, adding another layer of interactivity to the festivities. Union Square Alliance CEO Marisa Rodriguez reflected on the collaboration, highlighting Nintendo’s role as a key sponsor in this year’s Union Square in Bloom initiative.

"We are thrilled to welcome Nintendo to the community.

This family-friendly activation allows visitors to discover both Pikmin and the unique charm of Union Square's local businesses and attractions," Rodriguez stated. Union Square in Bloom, now in its fourth year, features elaborate floral installations and activations throughout the district, attracting visitors and supporting small businesses.

This initiative not only celebrates the change of seasons but also contributes to the district’s ongoing revitalization by drawing attention to Union Square’s cultural vibrancy. Fans seeking Pikmin-themed merchandise can visit Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO, the company’s first official retail store on the West Coast, now open in Union Square.

The store adds another dimension to the area’s gaming allure and serves as an anchor for Nintendo’s western expansion. The Pikmin Bloom MINI WALK and Pop-Up Tent Event solidify San Francisco’s Union Square as a premier destination for interactive Nintendo experiences this summer.

With exclusive in-game rewards, AR adventures, and a bustling community atmosphere, both Pikmin enthusiasts and newcomers are invited to join the journey.

Nintendo Niantic Pikmin Bloom Pikmin Union Square Square Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO Union Square Alliance Marisa Rodriguez My Nintendo