With summer just around the corner, now is the time to secure your tickets for Big Cat Fest 2026 — the world’s first and only festival dedicated entirely to wild cats.
Returning to The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent across ten days from 29th July to 9th August, Big Cat Fest promises an unforgettable day out for animal lovers, families and conservation supporters alike. Following the record-breaking sell-out success of previous open days, visitors are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.
Favourite experiences from previous years are returning, including keeper talks, training sessions, enrichment demonstrations and special appearances from CBBC’s One Zoo Three stars Cam, Tyler and Aaron Whitnall.
This year’s festival introduces exciting new areas that make 2026 the most ambitious Big Cat Fest to date.
The Rusty-Spotted Cat Conservation Centre
Among the highlights is the brand-new Rusty-Spotted Cat Conservation Centre, opening just in time for the festival. Soon to be home to Kuda the rusty-spotted cat — the world’s smallest wild cat species — this purpose-built facility is the largest of its kind in the UK and represents a major step forward in the conservation of these remarkable yet little-known felines. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to learn about the challenges facing rusty-spotted cats in the wild and discover how innovative conservation programmes are helping to secure their future.
The Small Cat Rescue Centre
The festival will also shine a spotlight on the Sanctuary’s growing commitment to smaller wild cat species through its dedicated Small Cat Rescue Centre. While lions, tigers and leopards often capture the headlines, many smaller wild cats face equally serious threats from habitat loss and human conflict. These new areas offer a fascinating insight into some of the world’s most overlooked and endangered feline species — including the story of Ursa the Eurasian lynx, brought safely to the Sanctuary from war-torn Ukraine.
Most importantly, every ticket purchased directly supports The Big Cat Sanctuary’s work across its five pillars of Welfare, Breeding, Education, Conservation and Rescue — helping to protect wild cats globally.
Alongside standard day tickets, a VIP option is also available — including entry one hour before general admission opens.
With demand expected to be high once again, don’t leave booking until the last minute. For a unique summer experience that combines conservation, education and family fun, Big Cat Fest is the event of the summer.
BOOK NOW