The cat video fest: New York’s unique cultural event

The Cat Video Fest in New York is a movie marathon dedicated to cat videos in which over 200 are shown one after the other to raise funds for cat shelters

The Cat Video Fest in New York, held on August 3 and 4, 2024, has become a standout cultural event in the city, drawing an ever-growing number of cat enthusiasts. However, this festival is not what one might expect.

There are no feline parades or booths selling cat-themed merchandise. Instead, it’s a cinematic marathon dedicated entirely to cat videos. During the 73-minute screening, attendees are treated to a continuous sequence of over 200 cat videos, carefully selected by the festival’s curator, Will Braden.

“Pure feline joy” curated by Will Braden

Will Braden, a passionate cat lover best known for his channel “Henri, le Chat Noir”, watched more than 15,000 cat videos submitted by the public to choose the best ones for this feature-length film. The result is an experience of pure feline joy that has turned the festival into a must-attend event for cat lovers worldwide.

$280,000 raised for animal shelters

Despite its unconventional nature, the Cat Video Fest has been a tremendous success, doubling its attendance from previous years and raising $280,000, all of which was donated to local animal shelters.

This event is not just about enjoying cats on the big screen; it’s also about supporting a noble cause: helping cats in need find new homes. The charm of the Cat Video Fest lies in its simplicity and its ability to bring people together through a shared love.

A pause from the digital world

In an era dominated by social media and rapid content consumption, the event offers a moment of respite, an opportunity to disconnect from the phone screen and share the joy of watching cats in their amusing antics with other enthusiasts.

The success of this year’s Cat Video Fest confirms that the love for cats knows no bounds and that, even in today’s fast-paced world, there’s always room for a shared laugh—especially when it helps our furry little friends.