Target quietly introduces Pokémon event aimed at preventing adults from hoarding cards from kids.

Grown adults squabbling over Pokémon cards—and occasionally getting into trouble—has become a bit of a meme at this point. While the Pokémon trading card game is a hit with kids, you won’t see many of them lining up outside a store on a weekday or shelling out thousands for the latest TCG set. When kids do join the Pokémon action, there’s always a chance an adult might spoil the fun. So, what’s a retailer like Target to do about this situation?

The solution appears to be an event on September 27 from 12 to 4 p.m., branded as “Celebrate 30 Years of Pokémon.” However, insiders and restock Discord servers have been referring to it as Family Day for weeks prior to the official announcement. This unofficial title hints at the nature of the event’s activities.

The first 98 attendees will snag a bag of goodies, which includes a Mewtwo promo card and an event ticket. This ticket allows them to buy two 30th Celebration Tins, each containing five packs. While these elements alone wouldn’t make for a special event—just a typical Pokémon drop—the additional activities at Target stores are what really set this occasion apart.

Target will host a “draw-your-own Pokémon card” activity, complete with a plastic cover that mimics a PSA-graded collectible. There will also be photo ops and various Pokémon-themed giveaways. Select stores will feature demos of Pokémon Pokopia on the Nintendo Switch 2. Plus, many Target locations have set up displays showcasing Pokémon-themed products in honor of the 30th anniversary.

These activities are designed for everyone to enjoy, but many Target employees feel the event is primarily aimed at kids. This likely explains why it’s scheduled for a weekend and during a more convenient time rather than opening hours.

The goal is to give busy families a fair chance at snagging a sought-after product. Whether that actually happens remains to be seen. Already, adult Pokémon fans on restock and scalper Discord servers are planning to attend solo to grab the 30th Celebration tins. Some are even strategizing how to camp out or line up outside the store, with a few self-aware individuals considering bringing a kid along to fit the theme.

“Wonder how many single middle-aged men I’ll see at this ‘family’ event,” quipped one commenter on a social media post about Target’s Pokémon gathering.

If you’re interested in attending, it might be wise to contact your local store for details on line times and stock availability.

After the massive success of Palworld, Game Freak may feel the heat to create a more ambitious Pokémon game.