Which Pokémon to Pick in 'Pokémon GO' Holiday Research?

Author: Camila Feb 21,2025

In Pokemon GO's Holiday Part 1 branching research, trainers face a crucial decision: assist Spark or Sierra. This guide clarifies the choices, helping you optimize your Holiday Part 1 progress. The free event research, running from December 17th to December 22nd at 9:59 AM local time, presents this choice after completing the initial tasks.

The Spark vs. Sierra Dilemma

The core difference lies in the Pokemon types emphasized: Ice-type for Spark, Fire-type for Sierra. The reward encounters also vary. While the final reward (Sandygast) remains consistent, the choice impacts your early-game focus.

Spark's Research: An Ice-Type Focus

Pokemon GO Spark

Image via Niantic

Choosing Spark directs your efforts towards Ice-type Pokemon. Completing Part 2 rewards you with an Alolan Vulpix encounter.

Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:

Research Task Reward
Catch 10 Ice-Type Pokemon 10 Pinap Berries
Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokemon 20 Poke Balls
Complete 5 Field Research Tasks 500 Stardust
Complete All Three Tasks Alolan Vulpix & 2000 XP

Part 3 Tasks & Rewards:

Research Task Reward
Catch 25 Ice-Type Pokemon 10 Ultra Balls
Power Up Ice-Type Pokemon 10 Times 1 Golden Razz Berry
Collect MP from 3 Power Spots 100 Max Particles
Complete All Three Tasks Sandygast, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust

Sierra's Research: A Fire-Type Focus

Pokemon GO Rocket Leaders

Image via Niantic

Selecting Sierra shifts your focus to Fire-type Pokemon. The Part 2 reward is a Shadow Vulpix encounter.

Part 2 Tasks & Rewards:

Research Task Reward
Catch 10 Fire-Type Pokemon 10 Pinap Berries
Take 5 snapshots of wild Pokemon 20 Poke Balls
Complete 5 Field Research Tasks 500 Stardust
Complete All Three Tasks Shadow Vulpix & 2000 XP

Part 3 Tasks & Rewards:

Research Task Reward
Catch 25 Fire-Type Pokemon 10 Ultra Balls
Power Up Fire-Type Pokemon 10 Times 1 Golden Razz Berry
Collect MP from 3 Power Spots 100 Max Particles
Complete All Three Tasks Sandygast, 3000 XP, 2000 Stardust

The Verdict

The best choice hinges on your desired Vulpix variant (Alolan or Shadow) and preferred Pokemon type to catch during the event. Pokemon GO is available now.