While favourite experiences such as keeper talks, training sessions, enrichment demonstrations and special appearances from CBBC’ s One Zoo Three stars Cam, Tyler and Aaron Whitnall will return, this year’ s festival introduces exciting new areas that make 2026 the biggest and most ambitious event yet.

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 rustyspotted

cats in the wild and see how innovative conservation programmes are helping to secure their future.

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 visitors a fascinating insight into some of the world’ s most overlooked and endangered feline species, while also shining the spotlight on the sanctuary’ s recent rescue efforts, including bringing Ursa the Eurasian lynx safely to the sanctuary from war-torn Ukraine.

Of course, Big Cat Fest remains one of the very few opportunities to see an extraordinary collection of wild cats all in one place.

The sanctuary is the only location in the UK that’ s home to all five big cat species and cares for more than 30 cats including Yuna, Rori, Vanda, Amani and Lira, the famous lions rescued from Ukraine.

Beyond the cats, the festival atmosphere makes Big Cat Fest a true summer celebration. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, local food and drink, market stalls, family activities and fairground attractions throughout the day.

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 offering is also available, which includes early entry one hour before general admission.

With demand expected to be high once again, organisers are urging visitors not to leave booking until the last minute. For a unique summer experience that combines conservation, education and family fun, Big Cat Fest is the summer event not to miss.

Book your tickets today!