Pokémon GO, the popular new app based on the children's cartoon/video game franchise, has made major waves around the world. The overall consensus from users, both avid and casual: we're hooked . . . despite a few network errors.  Local businesses like Stillwaters Tavern, Red Mesa Mercado, Funky Sweets, Kahwa Coffee and Rowdies Den have worked to incorporate the app into their respective marketing strategies by offering app users discounts on their bar tab, free coffee and even collectible toys. 

The sentiment is underscored by the overwhelming enthusiasm for this Saturday's (July 23) Pokémon GO Pub Crawl. The idea came from Ryan McGibbeny, producer for Hot 101.5's Miguel Show. The crawl went from concept to viral sensation overnight. 1.3k  Tampa Bay community members have RSVP'd with another 4.1k expressing interest. 

The event begins at 2pm at Jannus Live where Spindiana Jones performing live to kickoff the festivities. At 3pm the gathered mass of Pokémon enthusiasts will depart for the best spots to catch the creatures downtown. The group recently posted a map highlighting the general zones they plan to hit during the crawl. Attendees are encouraged to wear their team colors, blue, yellow, or red, to trully make this a huge Pokémon trainer experience. They'll begin hitting the area around Rowdies Den, Station House, Red Mesa Cantina and the 200 Block of Central Avenue from 3pm to 4:30pm before moving on to Beach Drive. Click HERE for more details.