Cat lovers have an unmissable event in Mexico City. Next Sunday, August 9th, the Miguel Hidalgo City Hall esplanade will host another edition of Gato Fest CDMX , an event that combines entertainment, awareness, and solidarity to help thousands of felines living in shelters and rescue centers. The event will run from 10:00 AM to 19:00 PM and will bring together animal welfare organizations, rescuers, volunteers, and exhibitors with a common goal: to improve the lives of homeless cats.
This initiative, now in its tenth year, stems from concerns about feline overpopulation and abandonment. According to the organizers, the situation worsens each year, with more shelters appearing, which they consider an alarming sign. Therefore, the festival aims to alleviate the burden on shelters by providing essential resources and promoting responsible adoption as a sustainable solution.
Date and place of the event
Gato Fest 2026 will be held on Sunday, August 9th, at the Miguel Hidalgo Borough Hall Esplanade, located at Avenida Parque Lira 94, Colonia Observatorio. This central and easily accessible location makes it convenient for attendees from all over Mexico City and the metropolitan area. Admission is free , although visitors are encouraged to bring in-kind or monetary donations to support the cause.
To get there, it is recommended to use public transportation: the nearest metro station is Tacubaya (Line 7) and the nearest Metrobús station is Parque Lira (Line 2). Organizers advise purchasing tickets in advance if needed, although admission is free, and remind attendees that pets should not be brought to the event to avoid any disturbances.
Food collection and donations
One of the festival's cornerstones is food collection. This year's goal is to gather 13 tons of cat food , both dry and wet, which will be distributed among shelters in Mexico City, the State of Mexico, Puebla, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Guerrero, and Mazatlán. It is estimated that this amount will benefit more than 2.100 rescued cats, providing them with sustenance for several months.
In addition to kibble and canned food, donations of cat litter, cleaning supplies, beds, scratching posts, and medications are also welcome. Those who prefer to contribute financially can do so directly at the event, and the money will go towards veterinary and shelter maintenance expenses. Every contribution, no matter how small, provides significant relief to the organizations, which often struggle to make ends meet.
Responsible adoption: no cats on the premises
One of the most significant changes this year is that the cats will not be physically present at the festival. The organizers have decided to avoid the animals' presence to prevent stressful situations due to the large crowds. Instead, each shelter will bring informational folders with photos and profiles of the cats available for adoption.
Those interested can fill out application forms and speak directly with representatives from the associations. Each shelter sets its own requirements, but generally, official identification, proof of address, and an interview are required to ensure the prospective adoptive parent offers a suitable home. Responsible adoption is the central theme of the event, and the goal is for people to make an informed and committed decision.
In addition, feline behavior and health specialists will offer talks and answer questions about nutrition, signs of illness in cats , and environmental enrichment. This way, those considering adoption can prepare before taking the plunge.
Activities and workshops for the whole family
The Cat Fest isn't just about solidarity, it's also about fun. The venue will feature a themed bazaar where more than 200 pet-friendly entrepreneurs will showcase their products: from scratching posts and cat-themed furniture to handcrafted accessories, clothing, toys, and specialized food. There will also be food options, including vegan alternatives, and live music to liven up the day.
The workshops are another highlight. Attendees can learn to create cat omamori , Japanese felt amulets personalized with good luck charms; there will also be feline origami sessions, tote bag design workshops with cat prints, and an educational workshop about cats as pets, where children can paint and learn. In addition, there will be lectures by veterinarians and experts in feline nutrition and behavior.
For those seeking a souvenir, the themed photo area will allow you to capture the moment with sets designed for cat lovers. All of this in a family-friendly atmosphere with a clear message of respect for animals.
Support for the Kittens of the French Cemetery
One of the cases that will receive special attention during the festival is that of the feral cat colony living in the French Pantheon of Legaria. Approximately 150 felines reside in this historic cemetery in the capital and, thanks to the ongoing work of rescuers and volunteers, have been sterilized, fed, and given veterinary care. This project demonstrates that the ethical management of feline colonies is an effective alternative to overpopulation, without resorting to euthanasia.
The organizers of Gato Fest wanted to highlight this work and encourage attendees to contribute with specific donations for this group. The experience at the French Pantheon is an example of how citizen collaboration can make a difference in the lives of animals that would otherwise be neglected.
Gato Fest 2026 has solidified its position as a space where fun and solidarity go hand in hand. With the participation of over 30 shelters, dozens of volunteers, and a wide range of activities, the event aims not only to raise funds but also to educate the public about the importance of adoption, spaying/neutering, and respect for felines. Every donation, every adoption, and every visit contributes to building a more compassionate city for the animals who need it most.
