Festival for feline fans

15.12.2008
Fans of all things feline may wish to take a ferry to Flanders next year to enjoy a festival with a difference.

The Cat Parade is Belgium"s way of celebrating the joy the loveable pets bring to the world.

Among the attractions on show will be marching bands, processions filled with large inflatable cats and a – thankfully pretend – fight between the animal and a dog.

The festival dates back to the 12th century, in which Ypres residents were scared of the animals, and has become a much looked-forward to date on the calendar for many Belgians - however, those missing it this time around will have to wait another three years for its next appearance.

As a centrepiece of the event, a five-metre tall Garfield and several other well-known feline cartoon characters from the country will walk through the streets.

For those in search of a more traditional trip to Belgium, the nation"s Christmas markets are currently in full swing, with many running until the beginning of January.

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