The sleepy town of Ypres, nestled near Belgium’s border with France, transforms into a feline fiesta every three years. This unique spectacle known as the Kattenstoet, literally translated as “the Cat Parade,” is a charming and bizarre celebration that attracts cat lovers from around the globe. Imagine a parade filled with elaborate floats, hand-sewn costumes, and yes, giant cartoonish cats like Garfield peeking from boxes. But this isn’t just any parade—it’s one with a darkly fascinating history.
Back in the Middle Ages, Ypres was a thriving hub for cloth making. Cats were seen as allies in the battle against fabric-munching vermin. Come winter, these cats wandered freely, only for their numbers to skyrocket. The town found itself overrun, and in a rather grim turn, officials decided to control the population by tossing cats from the belfry tower during Lent—an event grimly dubbed ‘Cat Wednesday.’ Cats, unfortunately linked with witchcraft, were not only disposed of but celebrated as evil being purged. This continued until 1819 when the ghastly practice finally stopped. Yet, the legacy was hard to shake off.
In 1937, Ypres attempted to pay homage to its past without the cruelty. The parade was introduced, and cats were replaced with stuffed replicas being tossed instead. However, World War II put a pause on these festivities, only for them to roar back in 1946, bolstered by the addition of the now beloved parade. Today, the Kattenstoet is a vibrant tribute to Ypres’ sartorial heritage filled with knights, medieval attire, and crafts, drawing thousands of attendees who come for the eccentric celebrations and perhaps a plush kitty souvenir tossed from the belfry.
Of course, the festival isn’t just about historical nods and wacky floats. Local shops join in the merriment, embellishing their stores with cat-themed decorations and preparing cat-shaped buns and cookies. The climax of the parade is a playful modern twist on the darker days—a jester tossing soft toy cats to eager crowds below. When these run out, the festivities culminate in setting a puppet witch aflame, a nod to the old belief in cats being tied to witchcraft. This vibrant festival draws in a staggering crowd each year, with about 50,000 spectators turning up in 2024 alone.
If you’re keen to partake in this quirky celebration, mark your calendars for the second Sunday in May, every third year. The latest festivity was in May 2024, so start planning for 2027 to witness this intricate tapestry of history, culture, and fun.
The Kattenstoet offers a captivating glimpse into the past while embracing a playful present, celebrating not only the cat but also the town’s rich history and cultural identity. It’s a testament to how communities can acknowledge and transform their past into a vibrant celebration that pulls thousands together in shared joy and remembrance.
