CatCon Draws Thousands in Celebration of Joy, Cats, and Community

In a year marred by climate disasters, militarized policing, and ongoing social strain, a furry beacon of joy lit up Pasadena, California. As The Guardian’s Dani Anguiano reports, more than 10,000 people flocked to CatCon last weekend—a two-day convention that’s equal parts feline fantasyland and community refuge.

Now in its tenth year, CatCon has grown into a cultural touchstone for animal lovers. This year’s event featured 200 adoptable kittens from the Pasadena Humane Society, alongside a sprawling marketplace of quirky tees, crocheted cat beds, and celebrity felines like “Cat Named Calvin” and the internet-famous duo Sponge Cake and Buttercream. With hundreds of adoptions and countless smiles, the event was a breath of fresh air in an otherwise heavy time for the region.

Founded by Susan Michals in 2015, CatCon isn’t just about cat merch—it’s a subversive pushback against outdated “cat lady” stereotypes and a showcase for how loving animals builds community. Visitors wore everything from sparkly ears to full-on leather catsuits. “It’s a place to feel seen,” one attendee shared. “It’s just fun.”

The diversity at CatCon stood out. People of all backgrounds mingled, adopted kittens, swapped stories, and celebrated shared values—from animal welfare to political humor (with slogans like “Kittens Against Trump”). The most powerful moment? A bell ringing each time a cat found a new home—met with applause across the hall.

While cats were the stars, the message was deeply human: in a world aching with division, small acts of kindness and connection still matter. As Michals said, “People are still finding joy—and even activism—in their joy.”

If you want to help, adopt, foster, or Support your local shelter. Or just lean into your weird and wear the ears—because showing compassion isn’t just cool, it’s powerful.

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