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This weekend, from April 5 to 6, the Zemgale Olympic Center (ZOC) will host the cat exhibition “FIFe Baltic Winner 2025”, featuring more than 300 cats from various European countries. An international jury will determine the cats competing for the prestigious “Baltic Winner” title. Visitors will also have the chance to vote for their favorite feline. The winner of the “Jelgava Cat 2025” Audience Choice Award will be honored with a special Jelgava City Cup.

The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to discover over 25 well-known and rare cat breeds from Europe. Among the participants will be the majestic Maine Coons, the gentle British Shorthairs, and the elegant, blue-eyed Sacred Birman cats, beloved by Jelgava residents in previous events. Visitors will also be impressed by Norwegian Forest Cats, whose water-resistant coats are adapted to cold climates, the extravagant Devon Rex cats with their wavy fur, and the graceful Oriental cats. Lesser-known breeds will include the Singapura cats, characterized by their small yet muscular build, as well as Manx and Kurilian Bobtail cats, distinguished by their shortened tails.

The “Baltic Winner” title is awarded annually in the Baltic region, and this year, 300 cats will compete in Latvia, with only 34 earning the prestigious title. “Once every three years we are honored to organize an exhibition of this scale, where visitors can admire a unique diversity of breeds and the finest representatives who have earned special qualifications to participate. The winning title registered at this event will belong to the cat for a lifetime. I invite all animal lovers to visit Jelgava, where they can not only see and learn about different cat breeds but also take part in activities and competitions. Additionally, visitors can vote for their favorite cat, which will be crowned as the ‘Jelgava Cat 2025’ Audience Choice Award winner,” says event organizer Anžela Fomičeva.

Visitors will be invited to vote for their favorite cat on the first day of the exhibition, April 5. Each attendee will receive a voting card upon purchasing a ticket and will be introduced to the voting process. The winner of the Audience Choice Award will be announced on April 6 at approximately 1:00 PM and will be honored with the special Jelgava City Cup.

Visitors are invited to check the event program to plan their visit based on their interests. On April 5, international FIFe judges from Poland, Denmark, Italy, Norway, and the Netherlands will evaluate the cats. From 1:30 PM to 1:50 PM, there will be presentations on different cat breeds, and from 1:50 PM to 2:30 PM, veterinarian Daira Višķere will deliver a lecture on “How to Prevent Accidents: Household Hazards for Cats”. On April 6, the final competitions and awards ceremony will take place, showcasing the most beautiful finalists and announcing the winners.

Throughout both days, visitors will also be able to explore a wide range of pet-related products. The youngest guests will enjoy a children’s corner featuring face painting, cat drawing, and various games. Additionally, a crafts market will be open for visitors.

The exhibition will be held at ZOC (Kronvalda Street 24) and will welcome visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on both days.

Ticket prices:

• Adults: €4
• Children aged 7–13: €2
• Children under 7: Free entry
• Family ticket (2 adults + 1 or 2 children over 7): €8

The event is organized by the “Kaķu mīļotāju un klubu asociācija CFCA Latvija “, the official representative of “Federation Internationale Feline” (FIFe) in Latvia.