Splatoon 3 continues to receive seasonal events well into 2026, and the annual SpringFest Splatfest is back for another round. The event runs from April 11 through April 13, 2026, bringing a familiar theme, free in-game rewards, and exclusive Nintendo Switch Online icon parts.
This is a rerun of the original SpringFest theme, but the rewards are refreshed and participation counts toward your overall Splatfest record. Here is everything you need to know to prepare.
Event Schedule by Region
SpringFest runs simultaneously across all regions, but the start and end times vary based on your local time zone. Plan accordingly—this is a 48-hour event with no breaks.
| Region | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| North America (PT) | Friday, April 11 at 5:00 PM | Sunday, April 13 at 5:00 PM |
| North America (ET) | Friday, April 11 at 8:00 PM | Sunday, April 13 at 8:00 PM |
| Europe (BST) | Saturday, April 12 at 1:00 AM | Monday, April 14 at 1:00 AM |
| Europe (CEST) | Saturday, April 12 at 2:00 AM | Monday, April 14 at 2:00 AM |
| Japan (JST) | Saturday, April 12 at 9:00 AM | Monday, April 14 at 9:00 AM |
| Australia (AEST) | Saturday, April 12 at 10:00 AM | Monday, April 14 at 10:00 AM |
Sneak Peek Period: The pre-event voting window is already open. You can select your team now from the Pledge Box in Splatsville Square.
The Theme: Baby Chicks vs. Li’l Bunnies vs. Bear Cubs
This is the exact same theme that ran during the original SpringFest. The three options represent soft, fluffy spring animals:
| Team | Mascot | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Team Baby Chicks | Tiny yellow chick | Classic spring energy |
| Team Li’l Bunnies | Fluffy white rabbit | Playful and quick |
| Team Bear Cubs | Small brown bear | Cuddly but strong |
How to Choose:
- Visit the Pledge Box in Splatsville Square.
- Select your team. Your choice is locked for the duration of the event.
- The Sneak Peek period determines early popularity and can influence Conch Shell distribution.
There is no objectively “correct” team. Pick the one you find most appealing. Popularity is only one-third of the final score; Open and Pro battle wins matter more.
Free Rewards for All Participants
Every player who participates in at least one match during the event will receive Super Sea Snails after the Splatfest concludes. The number of snails depends on your final rank and whether your team wins.
| Reward Tier | Super Sea Snails (Winning Team) | Super Sea Snails (Losing Team) |
|---|---|---|
| SpringFest Ruler | 24 | 21 |
| SpringFest Ruler +1 | 25 | 22 |
| SpringFest Ruler +2 | 26 | 23 |
| SpringFest Ruler +3 | 27 | 24 |
How to Maximize Your Snails:
- Play consistently throughout the weekend. Rank is based on total points earned, not win rate alone.
- Use food tickets during matches to boost XP gains.
- Aim for at least the “Ruler” rank, which is achievable in roughly 2–3 hours of play.
Important: Rewards are distributed automatically after the results are announced, typically within 24 hours of the event ending. You must log in and visit the terminal in Splatsville Square to claim them.
Exclusive Nintendo Switch Online Icons
For players with an active Nintendo Switch Online membership (any tier), there are additional cosmetic rewards tied to SpringFest.
Platinum Point Icon Parts
Starting now, you can exchange Platinum Points for Spring Fest themed icon parts through the Nintendo Switch Online app. These parts can be used to create custom user icons featuring the event mascots.
How to Redeem:
- Open the Nintendo Switch Online app on your Switch home screen.
- Navigate to Missions & Rewards.
- Select Icon Parts.
- Look for the Spring Fest 2026 section.
- Exchange Platinum Points for individual parts.
Participation Icons
Additionally, anyone who participates in SpringFest (with a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership) will receive special icons after the event ends. These are automatically awarded and do not require Platinum Points.
| Requirement | Reward |
|---|---|
| Platinum Points Exchange | Spring Fest icon parts (customizable) |
| Participate in SpringFest | Exclusive completion icon (awarded after event) |
Note: Trial subscriptions and family group members without individual paid memberships are not eligible for the participation icons.
Splatoon 3 Nintendo Music Update
Coinciding with SpringFest, Nintendo has added 112 new tracks to the Splatoon 3 album on Nintendo Music, bringing the total to 230 tracks with over 8 hours and 30 minutes of music.
New Additions Include:
- Tracks from the Side Order DLC
- Music from the Grand Festival
- Songs like “Leaving with Pearl” and “Short Order” by Off the Hook
To listen, open the Nintendo Music mobile app with an active Switch Online subscription and navigate to the Splatoon 3 album.
SpringFest Strategy Quick Tips
If you want to maximize your contribution to your team’s victory, keep these pointers in mind:
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Stick to one weapon class | Consistency improves your 10× and 100× battle chances |
| Play Pro mode solo | Pro battles are weighted more heavily in final scoring |
| Use Conch Shells strategically | Save them for the final hours when matchmaking is most active |
| Coordinate with friends | Open mode allows 4-player teams; communication wins matches |
| Check the rotation | Some stages favor certain weapon types; plan accordingly |
When Are Results Announced?
Splatfest results are typically revealed within 24 hours of the event ending. The announcement includes:
- Popularity percentage
- Open battle win percentage
- Pro battle win percentage
- Tricolor battle win percentage (if applicable)
Check the terminal in Splatsville Square or follow official Splatoon social channels for the exact announcement time.
Summary Checklist
| Task | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Choose your team at the Pledge Box | Before April 11 |
| Exchange Platinum Points for icon parts | Ongoing |
| Participate in SpringFest matches | April 11–13 |
| Claim Super Sea Snails | Within 7 days after results |
| Claim participation icon | After event ends (NSO required) |
Which team are you picking for SpringFest 2026? Let us know in the comments, and good luck in the Splatfest.
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