Cat lovers, artists, and advocates in Florida are in for a treat this January with the launch of Space Cats Florida, a new convention designed to celebrate everything feline. Founded by Leeza Hernandez, a lifelong cat enthusiast, artist, and entrepreneur, the event promises to unite creativity and compassion in support of cats in need.
Space Cats Florida is taking place on January 25th and 26th 2025 at the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa, Florida.
Catster is excited to announce this event and share more information about how it got started and what visitors can expect. We spoke with Leeza to get the inside scoop.
From Sketching Cats to Convention CEO: Leeza’s Journey
Leeza’s career has always been deeply intertwined with art and her love for cats. From her early days as a graphic designer and illustrator to authoring and illustrating the children’s book Catnapped! in 2013, she has continually found ways to merge her artistic talents with her passion for felines.
In 2017, Leeza’s journey took a new turn when she attended the Catsbury Park Cat Convention in New Jersey. Initially planning to visit as a fan, she decided to showcase her work instead, combining book signings with art prints inspired by her cat sketches. “My booth was a hit, and I quickly realized I could turn my love of cats and art into a flourishing creative venture.” Leeza soon began traveling to cat conventions nationwide, some of which included CatCon Worldwide, Meow MeetUp, SeaMeow, and Catsbury Park, connecting with the vibrant community of cat lovers.
However, when the pandemic paused in-person events, Leeza found herself missing the community and energy of these gatherings. After relocating to Florida and learning that no East Coast conventions were returning, she decided to take matters into her own hands. With encouragement from fellow vendors and her husband, Leeza embarked on a mission to create Space Cats Florida.
“I never imagined hosting my own convention, but when no East Coast cat events returned after the pandemic, I realized it was time to step up and create something for the community I love,” Leeza shared.
The Heart of Space Cats Florida
Space Cats Florida, taking place on January 25th and 26th at the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa, FL, is more than just a celebration of cats—it’s a movement to make a tangible impact. Partnering with the Brevard Humane Society, the event aims to support their efforts in finding forever homes for cats and raising awareness about animal welfare.
“Space Cats Florida isn’t just about celebrating our love of cats—it’s about uniting as a community to make a real difference for the cats who need us most,” Leeza explained. “[It’s] a celebration of everything I love about cats and community with a deep desire to connect cat lovers, experts, and beyond in this state. As an artist who has always donated a portion of my art sales to help cats in need, this event felt like a natural extension of that mission.”
The convention will feature unique vendors, interactive Cativity stations, and educational presentations from cat experts. Special guests include social media star Nathan The Cat Lady on Saturday and a meet-and-greet with a Maine Coon named PEAK on Sunday. With a blend of fun and advocacy, the event is set to be a highlight for cat enthusiasts across the region.
A Community Effort
Organizing a convention is no small feat, but Leeza has received immense support from her family, friends, and volunteers, as well as the speakers and vendors who share her vision. While the inaugural year’s team is small, their dedication and passion are the driving forces behind the event’s creation.
“We might be small in our inaugural year, but we will be mighty!” Leeza shared.
Event Details
- When: January 25th and 26th, 2025
- Where: Space Coast Convention Center, 301 Tucker Lane, Cocoa, FL
- Tickets: Available at spacecatsflorida.com or via Eventbrite at https://SpaceCatsFlorida.eventbrite.com Tickets range from $10 to $55.
The weekend of feline fun promises an exciting experience for cat lovers, breeders, and professionals, featuring a dynamic lineup of speakers and activities:
- SurferCat Mavi: Star of Cat People on Netflix and featured on The Today Show and People Magazine, Mavi the Bengal cat is an extreme athlete—surfing, snowboarding, and more. He’s currently filming a travel show in Italy.
- Kate Benjamin: Founder of Hauspanther and co-author of Catification, she’ll share her expertise in stylish and functional cat design.
- Sterling ‘TrapKing’ Davis: A former rapper and TNR advocate, Davis promotes diversity in animal welfare and contributes to controlling feral cat populations.
- Ellen Carozza: Known as the “Cat LVT,” Carozza will offer valuable tips on feline health and care, promoting adoption through the Chris Griffey Memorial Feline Foundation.
- Nathan Kehn (Nathan The Cat Lady): A passionate cat welfare advocate, Nathan has worked across the country with shelters and rescues to improve the lives of cats.
Activities include:
- Lunar Lounge: Cats for adoption from the Brevard Humane Society.
- DIY Cat Toy & Friendship Bracelet Station: Fun for families and cat lovers.
- Intergalactic Photo Backdrop: Perfect for social media photos.
- Celebrity Cat Meet ‘n’ Greets: Photo ops with famous cats.
- Art Wall: A coloring station for kids.
- Fundraising Activities: Support local cat charities.
- Cat Product Giveaways/Vendors: Browse the “Space Cat Walk” for products and win prizes.
A special thanks is given to sponsors like Zymox and CatLady Box for supporting this event!
Looking Ahead
Leeza’s ultimate goal is to establish Space Cats Florida as an annual event that continues to expand the cat community, educate attendees, and raise awareness. “This convention is a celebration of everything we love about cats—community, creativity, and compassion—all coming together for a purr-pose,” she said.
With plans to grow and evolve, Space Cats Florida aims to become a trusted event for cat enthusiasts in the Southeast—a must-attend convention that blends fun, education, and advocacy.
For more information and updates, visit spacecatsflorida.com.
From Sketching Cats to Convention CEO: Leeza’s Journey
