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ACNH January Update 2026 - New Items, Events, Critters & Changes in Animal Crossing

12/29/2025 4:36:05 PM

January 2026 is one of the biggest months Animal Crossing: New Horizons has seen in years. Between a long-awaited free 3.0 update, a Nintendo Switch 2 edition, seasonal events, limited-time items, and critter changes across both hemispheres, there is a lot for players to keep track of. Whether you’re a longtime island resident or returning after a break, this guide breaks down the 12 most important updates and changes happening in January 2026, so you don’t miss anything.

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 Update (January 15, 2026)

On January 15, 2026, Animal Crossing: New Horizons receives its first major update in over four years. The 3.0 update is completely free and adds a massive amount of new content for all players.

Key highlights include:

Slumber Islands – Online islands where players can build, decorate, and collaborate with friends
Resetti Returns – Helps remove unwanted flowers and ACNH items directly into storage
New Hotel Facility – Decorate rooms to attract visiting tourists
Major quality-of-life improvements
Brand-new furniture and decorative items

This update fundamentally expands how players interact with their islands and is easily the biggest change the game has seen since launch.

2. Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (January 15, 2026)

Also launching on January 15 is the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This is a paid upgrade (around $5 in most regions) and is only available on Nintendo Switch 2.

Exclusive features include:

Megaphone item – Call villagers using the system microphone
Improved graphics and performance
Mouse controls for easier decorating
Online play with up to 12 players

If you don’t own a Switch 2, don’t worry—the core content is all in the free 3.0 update.

3. New Year’s Day Events (January 1)

January begins with New Year’s Day, which brings a few subtle but special moments. Visit The Roost to receive exclusive dialogue from Brewster. A perfect time for screenshots, relaxation, and starting the year fresh on your island.

4. New Year & Shōgatsu Seasonal Items (Dec 22 – Jan 5)

From December 22 to January 5, Nook Shopping features New Year’s and Shōgatsu items, including:

Decorative arches
Traditional Japanese New Year items
Limited-time festive furniture

Some items rotate yearly, making this period especially important for collectors.

5. Zodiac Item Availability

Each year features a special Zodiac item, available during the New Year period. Many Zodiac items haven’t appeared since they were introduced in 2021, making January one of the best months for collectors. While Katrina can sometimes gift Zodiac items, Nook Shopping is the most reliable source.

6. Setsubun & Seasonal Holdable Items (Late January)

Several unique items appear later in the month:

Bean-throwing Setsubun item (Jan 25 – Feb 3)
Resetti-themed item (Jan 25 – Feb 2)
Big Game Celebration items (Jan 15 – Feb 15)

These are limited-time and often overlooked, so checking Nook Shopping regularly is recommended.

7. Fishing Tournament (Second Saturday of January)

CJ returns with a Fishing Tournament, available in both hemispheres.

Catch fish within a time limit
Earn exclusive fishing-themed rewards
Unlock trophies and special dialogue

This is one of the most rewarding recurring events in the game.

8. Bug-Off Event (Southern Hemisphere Only)

Southern Hemisphere players can enjoy the Bug-Off on the third Saturday of January.

Same format as the Fishing Tournament
Bug-catching challenges
Exclusive bug-themed rewards

9. Ornament Trees Disappear (January 6)

On January 6, festive ornaments disappear from trees. If you’re crafting holiday DIYs, make sure to stockpile ornaments before this date.

10. Bush Bloom Changes

January brings multiple seasonal bush changes:

Northern Hemisphere

Pink & Red Camellias bloom (Jan 1 – Mar 31)

Southern Hemisphere

Blue & Pink Hydrangeas bloom until Jan 20
Red & Yellow Hibiscus bloom from Jan 21 – Mar 20

11. Postcard & Letter Changes at Dodo Airlines

Holiday postcards are removed starting January 10. Valentine’s Day cards arrive January 16. If you enjoy sending letters to villagers, this is worth checking.