Every three years, the medieval streets of Ypres awaken to the sharp crack of celebration during Kattenstoet, the Cat Parade. This event isn’t just a festival; it’s history morphing into spirited revelry. Born from a centuries-old tradition where live cats were tossed from the belfry tower — a grim reminder of superstition and pest control — today's parade swaps the cruelty for colorful costumes, great energy, and playful giant cat puppets parading through cobblestone passages.

As the parade flows through the heart of Ypres, expect walls that echo with centuries of stories and citizens—and visitors—dressed in period attire. The procession takes place mainly along the town’s central squares and streets, over a roughly 1.5-kilometer loop that tours you through the medieval core, starting near the imposing Cloth Hall and winding towards Market Square.

The experience juxtaposes the town’s preserved gothic architecture against a rolling feast of floats, dancers, and music blaring with precise, joy-honed timing. Colors pop off the stone facades. Drums beat like a pulse, matched only by the rhythmic clip of feet and the cheering crowds.

For visitors planning their trip, the parade lasts about two hours and typically begins around midday. Arrive early to grab a spot along the route and soak up the ambient anticipation brewing with the morning. Expect cobblestones underfoot and variable weather, so sturdy shoes and layered clothing are smart choices.

Beyond watching, the Kattenstoet also offers exhibitions, workshops, and markets that celebrate local craft. It’s a chance to explore Ypres’ layered identity—defined by its intricate walls, somber war history, and vibrant present. Hydration is key, as you’ll be standing and moving with the crowd, enveloped by the cool medieval stones and the warm human energy.

While not an outdoor adventure in the traditional sense, respecting the parade’s historical roots and the energy of its participants offers a different kind of journey. This event demands engagement and awareness—an adventure in cultural empathy amid echoes of a fiercely lived past. With clear planning, the Kattenstoet invites you to walk the tightrope between history and festival, past and present.