8 Biggest Cat Conventions & Celebrations Around the World (2026)

Cat lovers unite! The world is filled with vibrant events dedicated to our feline friends, blending fun, education, charity, and community. From massive expos like CatCon to competitive cat shows and quirky festivals, these gatherings offer something for every cat enthusiast. In 2026, expect even more excitement as events rebound post-pandemic with in-person experiences, adoptable cats, celebrity felines, and unique activities. Whether you’re into pop culture cat vibes, pedigree competitions, or cultural parades, this guide covers the

8 biggest cat conventions and celebrations

worldwide, helping you plan your purr-fect adventure.

The 8 Biggest Cat Conventions and Celebrations

These standout events draw thousands annually, featuring merchandise, workshops, adoptions, and feline stars. Many support shelters and raise awareness for cat welfare. Dates for 2026 are confirmed where available; check official sites for updates.

1. CatCon

Pasadena, California, USA – August 1-2, 2026 (tentative, based on patterns).

CatCon is the ultimate cat-centric pop culture extravaganza, often called the ‘ComicCon for cats.’ Launched in 2015 by Susan Michals, this two-day event at the Pasadena Convention Center has welcomed over 100,000 attendees and facilitated 1,400 adoptions via its Adoption Village. Expect a whirlwind of

product demos, celebrity cat meet-and-greets

(think stars like Nuggie McGlasson or Adventure Cat Max), fashion shows like Purroject Catwalk, DIY workshops (e.g., cat bag charms), fortune-telling for your kitty, and veterinary seminars on health and behavior. No cats allowed, but all ages welcome—kids under 5 free with adults. Tickets start around $48 for adults. It’s not just fun; proceeds support cat charities, fostering community among ‘cat ladies’ and beyond.

2. Edmonton International Cat Fest

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada – May 31, 2026.

“We are not kitten you right now!” quips the event site. This beloved fest unites cat lovers for fun, food, and fundraising. Highlights include 50+ exhibitors selling merch, author talks, live music, vegan street eats, cat-inspired cocktails, adoptables, celebrity cats, a fancy-dress contest, free face painting, and a kids’ storytelling tent. Felines stay home, but humans (and kids) thrive. Virtual elements may persist for broader reach, emphasizing kitty causes and community bonds.

3. CatFest

Location varies; check for 2026 dates (often West Coast USA).

CatFest brings high-energy feline fun with art installations, photo booths, live music, adoption centers, artisan vendors, brand merch, and interactive cat playgrounds. It’s a sensory delight for cat lovers, blending creativity and commerce. Perfect for those seeking immersive, Instagram-worthy experiences that celebrate cat culture holistically.

4. The CFA International Cat Show

Various US locations (e.g., recent hosts); 2026 dates TBA via Cat Fanciers’ Association.

For purebred enthusiasts, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) International Cat Show is the pinnacle. Breeders showcase pedigreed cats in competitions like best-in-breed, agility, and household pet divisions. Spectators enjoy watching world-class felines strut, plus vendor halls and educational workshops on breeding, grooming, and care. It’s a prestigious event highlighting feline excellence and standards set by the CFA, a leading global authority.

5. POP Cats

Multiple US cities: Chicago, Houston, San Diego, Austin – Dates TBA for 2026.

POP Cats reimagines cat fests with a pop art twist. Multi-city events feature dazzling art, music, photo ops, adoptions, artisans, brand booths, and cat playgrounds. Unique perk: Bring up to

two well-behaved cats

(with guidelines)! Ideal for social kitties and owners wanting shared adventures. It’s vibrant, inclusive, and artistically feline-focused.

6. Kattenstoet: The Belgian Cat Festival

Ypres, Belgium – Second Sunday of May 2026 (May 10).

This historic ‘Cat Parade’ (Kattenstoet) dates back centuries, commemorating medieval cat-throwing traditions now replaced with celebration. Elaborate floats (including modern icons like Garfield), hand-sewn costumes, knight processions, and medieval reenactments fill the streets. Locals decorate shops with cat displays and bake feline-shaped treats. The finale: A jester tosses plush cats from the belfry. It’s a cultural tribute blending history, folklore, and feline fun—no live cats harmed, all symbolic.

7. Witch City Kitty

Salem, Massachusetts, USA – TBA for 2026 (typically fall).

In witch-trial famous Salem, Witch City Kitty is a spooky-chic one-day pop-up at an old hotel. Logo: Black cat in a pointy hat. Vendors, entertainment, rescues, services, and networking for local cat community. Bring leashed/carrier-bound kitties (no free-roamers). It’s uniquely atmospheric, uniting businesses, charities, and owners in a magical setting—witchcraft optional!

8. International and Global Cat Days

Worldwide – International Cat Day: August 8, 2026; Global Cat Day: October 16, 2026.

Not conventions but massive global celebrations organized by International Cat Care. International Cat Day raises awareness for cat protection, welfare, and stray issues. Global Cat Day (formerly World Cat Day) focuses on less fortunate cats/kittens via shelters. Join virtually or locally with events, posts, adoptions, and advocacy. Perfect low-key entry to cat celebrations.

Why Attend Cat Conventions and Celebrations?

These events transcend fun: They

educate on cat care

(health workshops, behavior tips),

drive adoptions

(thousands yearly),

fundraise for shelters

, and

build communities

. Post-COVID, in-person returns foster lasting friendships. Families enjoy kid-friendly activities; owners gain tips from experts. Pro tip: No well-behaved cats? Volunteer or adopt on-site!

How to Celebrate Your Cat at Home

Can’t travel? Host a feline fiesta! Ideas include:

• Cat-Safe Cake: Bake with chicken, tuna, or veggies (recipe: mix 1 cup cooked chicken, 1/4 cup pumpkin, egg; bake 20 mins at 350°F). Pair with human cake.
• Decor: Cat balloons, banners, toys as centerpieces.
• Games: Pin the tail on the kitty, guess-the-weight, cookie decorating, musical chairs with cat tunes. New puzzle toy prize!
• Lighting & Theme: Dim lights, cat videos, costumes for all.
• National Cat Lady Day: August 29, 2026—celebrate cat-loving women!

Event Comparison Table

Event	Location	Date (2026)	Cats Allowed?	Key Features
CatCon	Pasadena, CA	Aug 1-2	No	Celebs, fashion, adoptions
Edmonton Cat Fest	Edmonton, AB	May 31	No	Food, music, contests
CatFest	Varies, USA	TBA	No	Art, playgrounds
CFA Int’l Show	Varies, USA	TBA	Yes (competing)	Competitions, vendors
POP Cats	Multiple US	TBA	Yes (limited)	Pop art, music
Kattenstoet	Ypres, BE	May 10	No (symbolic)	Parade, history
Witch City Kitty	Salem, MA	TBA	Yes (leashed)	Pop-up fair, spooky
Int’l/Global Cat Day	Worldwide	Aug 8/Oct 16	N/A	Awareness events

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are cats allowed at these events?

Depends: POP Cats and Witch City Kitty yes (with rules); CFA for competitors; most expos no, to prevent stress.

What’s the best event for families?

Edmonton Cat Fest or CatCon—kid activities like face painting, storytelling, all-ages access.

How do these events help cats?

Adoptions, charity fundraisers, awareness for welfare via partners like shelters and International Cat Care.

When is National Cat Lady Day?

August 29—celebrate cat-loving pride!

Tips for attending with cats?

Ensure vaccination, use carriers/leashes, check rules; avoid if your cat is shy.