The organization of the Cat Parade in Ieper is opting for renewal with the theme ‘Movement’ for the edition on Sunday, May 9, 2027. The parade will be more compact, featuring ten thematic waves, new and updated acts, and increased involvement from Ieper associations. The program on Saturday, May 8, will be expanded with two new city jesters and the traditional Cat Toss moving to Saturday evening.
In 2027, the parade will consist of 73 acts and approximately 1,271 participants, a reduction from 2024 (90 acts, 1,558 participants). This more compact setup creates more space for movement, interaction, and stronger portrayals, with the traditional front procession and banner carriers being removed.
The parade will be structured into ten thematic waves, each forming a cohesive unit with its own story and a mix of music, dance, theater, movement, and spectacle. The final wave, ‘The Cats of Happiness’, will be entirely redeveloped, inspired by the Japanese lucky cat Maneki Neko, featuring a festive combination of music, dance, color, and spectacle, with a brand-new float as a highlight.
For the first time, two Ieper city jesters, Didi Decaesteker and Hendrik Deweerdt, will represent the city for the next four editions of the Cat Parade and other folkloric and representative activities.
The Cat Parade weekend begins on Saturday, May 8, with ‘Narrenstreken’ (Jester's Antics), a playful quest for children starting at 2 PM. The traditional Cat Toss will move to 6 PM, followed by ‘Kattenkronkels’ (Cat Twists), a varied evening program with music, dance, and theater from 6:30 PM onwards.
The new campaign image for the 47th Cat Parade features a leaping black cat, surrounded by colorful references to jesters, musicians, dancers, extras, and the history of Ieper, emphasizing the theme ‘Movement’. The organization is also seeking volunteers for face painting and costumes.
