day · range · Ieper (city centre / Lakenhalle) BE
Kattenstoet
Triennial cat parade with the famous Kattenwerpen (throwing of plush cats from the Cloth Hall belfry), a medieval Ypres tradition.
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Marketing angleinferred
Leverage the quirky, Instagram-worthy Kattenstoet parade to drive tourism and hospitality bookings in Ypres during the triennial event.
- Behind-the-scenes of the famous Kattenwerpen belfry cat-throwing tradition
- Medieval Ypres comes alive: plan your trip to the world's only cat parade
- Plush cat collectibles from Kattenstoet: limited-edition souvenirs for travelers
- Local guide: where to stay and eat during Ypres' triennial cat celebration
Programmetypical · 2026 TBC
The Kattenstoet (Festival of the Cats or Cat Parade) is a parade in Ypres, Belgium, devoted to the cat. It has been running regularly since 1955 and is usually held triennially on the second Sunday of May. The event attracted 55,000 visitors in 2024. Participants dress as cats, witches, mice, or townspeople from ages past, and the festival features brass bands and people riding on horseback.
- Gigantic papier-mâché cat floats including King Cieper and Minneke Poes (the famous female cat giant)
- Jester throws plush toy cats from the Cloth Hall belfry to crowds below
- 2,000+ participants in masquerade costumes parading through medieval streets
- Mock witch burning ceremony following the parade
- Free access in the city streets; tribune tickets available
- Cat-themed food and merchandise throughout the town