CATS Fest Frequently Asked Questions
What Does C.A.T.S. Stand for
Cigar Aficionados Trades and Sales
What Does OP: CFW Stand for
Operation: Cigars for Warriors (sometimes shortened to CFW)
What Is C.A.T.S. Fest
C.A.T.S. Fest is the only festival of its kind. It is truly a social festival, where you just happen to get an insane amount of free gifts - gifts surpassing the ticket cost by at least 5x. CATS Fest supports our troops through Operation: Cigars for Warriors
Where is Granbury
Granbury, Texas, is approximately 20 minutes from Fort Worth, Texas. It is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex
What Airport Should I Fly Into
There are two airports to choose from - DFW International Airport and Love Field
Will There Be Any Transportation For Or At the Event
There will be transportation provided from the Host hotel, to the festival grounds and back. Attendees are encouraged to use this transportation. There is also minimal parking in a couple of lots close by the event grounds, however, using the provided transportation is the best option.
Where Is The Host Hotel
The Best Western Granbury Inn & Suites and the Holiday Inn are the Co-host hotels. There will be many formal and informal parties happening at the hotels at various days and times throughout the festival. There are usually “Herfs” going on in the days leading up to the festival, as well as after the festival.
What Is A HERF
A herf is a gathering of BOTL and SOTL to relax, unwind and smoke premium cigars.
Does The Host Hotel Allow BYOB
The hotel is BYoB friendly
Do The Host Hotels Allow Pets
Pets are allowed based on the availability of pet friendly rooms. Up to 2 dogs per room with an 80 pound weight limit. Additional pet types (cats, birds, etc) may be accepted at the hotel's discretion. Pet rate is $25.00 per stay.
Is There A Discounted Hotel Rate
Yes, just let both the Best Western and the Holiday Inn know you are with CATS FEST when making your reservation. The cost with our discount should be $98.00/night
Is This Festival Just About Craft Beer And Cigars
Although this is labeled as a Craft Beer & Cigar Festival, it is truly the ultimate fundraiser that people look forward to going to each year. In fact many do not even realize that the festival is a fundraiser. Also, don't forget there are a number of fun competetions, (drink competition, chili competition, etc.) a concert, pizza party, golf, and much more).
How Does CATS Fest Give Back
While the festival is to support Operation: Cigars for Warriors, we welcome all military charities, NPOs and other military organizations (with a couple of exceptions) to have a booth at the 3-day festival at no charge. They are even allowed to raise funds for their own charity. At the end of the day, it is all about showing our patriotism and absolute support for our men and women currently serving, those that have served, and those we have lost along the way. Need more info? Please contact us.
Can Anyone Exibit At CATS Fest
We love local artisans and craftsmen and we welcome you to sign up to have a booth at CATS. Check out the available sponsorship packages or contact us if you need more info.
What Is The Craft Beer Experience
The Craft Beer Experience is not a drunk-fest. Still, we know when your are done sampling all the delicious craft beers, you will feel pretty damn good. Please remember R-E-S-P-E-C-T is the number one rule. We have only had one bad attendee in 6 years, and I would love to keep it that way. There will be transportation available to get you back to the hotel, so DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE. We can't bail you out!
Are There Any Competitions
We have a lot of competitions going on throughout the weekend. You can find them all on the Event Schedule. 100% of the proceeds go to the charity Op: CFW, and fees are tax free, as Op: CFW is a 501(c)3. The rest of the tickets we have to pay taxes on.
What Events Can I Judge
You are also welcome to be a judge for the Beard and Mustache Competition. We will have sign up sheets at registration.
Why Is CATS Fest In Granbury This Year
If I am With a VIP, But I Have A Companion Ticket, Do I Get Their Perks
A companion ticket NEVER gets you into the VIP dinner or early admittance to the festival. Personally, we think Companion Tickets are a rip-off as you only get a couple of items from the festival. Alternatively, a General Admission ticket will get hundreds of dollars worth of free gifts. Even if you don’t smoke cigars, you can give them to a spouse, a friend, or even donate them back to Cigars for Warriors.
Can I Still Enjoy The Beer Experience With A Companion Ticket
A companion ticket does NOT get you the ability to enjoy all the amazing craft beer. There is however a ticket just specifically for the Craft Beer Experience which can be purchased seperately to allow access to the Craft Beer Experience.
What Should I Wear
Dress code is up to you.
What Do I Need To Know About The VIP Dinner
The VIP dinner this year will be a “Denim and Lace” event. The dress code is up to you. You can be casual in jeans or get all dolled up. It's totally up to you. The dinner is indoors this year and smoking will NOT be allowed inside. The trade off -- you get a really nice meal in an air conditioned and beautiful ballroom setting. When you are ready to enjoy a smoke, there is a very cool smoking area just outside the glass wall, on the boardwalk along the lake!
Is Alcohol Allowed At The Conference Center
You can NOT take alcohol on the Conference Center grounds. Since they retain a liquor license, it would be illegal to do so. There will be a full cash bar Available.