Celebrate the Biggest Lucky Cat in Wisconsin: The 2025 RuYi Cat Hoist at Potawatomi Casino Hotel

This May, something exciting and truly purr-fect is happening at Potawatomi Casino Hotel. From May 22 to May 29, 2025, the iconic RuYi Cat Hoist will be revealed with a full week of food, fun, and feline-inspired festivities. Whether you’re a longtime guest or visiting for the first time, you’ll want to join us for this unique celebration at RuYi, the new home to one of the most beloved symbols of luck and prosperity.

What is the Lucky Cat? A History of the Maneki-Neko

Before we get into all the exciting details of this year’s Cat Hoist event, let’s take a moment to appreciate the cultural icon at the center of it all: the Maneki-neko, or “beckoning cat.” Originating in Japan during the Edo period, this cat statue which often depicted with a raised paw, is believed to bring good fortune, wealth, and success. Typically found in restaurants, shops, and businesses throughout Asia and beyond, the Lucky Cat is a timeless symbol of prosperity and positivity.

Introducing the 2025 RuYi Cat Hoist

The official RuYi Cat Hoist begins on May 22, 2025, at 4 p.m., kicking off with a ceremonial cat hoist and birthday celebration for our Lucky Cat. This fully immersive experience will be filled with delicious food and drink specials, themed swag, and a one-of-a-kind naming contest where guests can help us officially name our cherished cat statue. The winner? Potawatomi Casino Hotel CEO Dominic Ortiz will handpick the best name, and the winner will receive an exclusive prize.

The Name Game: Enter the Lucky Cat Naming Contest

The heart of this year’s promotion is our Lucky Cat Naming Contest, where guests are invited to submit their most creative, clever, or culturally inspired names for RuYi’s resident feline. Starting at 4 p.m. on May 22 and ending at Noon on May 29, entries can be submitted in two easy ways: In-person at RuYi: Fill out a rack card entry form and drop it in the secure tumbler next to the Lucky Cat statue. Email your suggestion to socialmedia@paysbig.com There’s no limit to the number of entries you can submit. The guest who comes up with the winning name will receive a grand prize: “Dinner for Four at RuYi for a Year.” That’s right, twelve monthly dinners (one per month) with a value of up to $400 each. This prize is valued at almost $5,000. Winners will be announced on May 30, 2025, and must claim their prize within seven days. Each monthly certificate is dine-in only, non-transferable, and must be redeemed with a valid ID and Potawatomi Rewards card. So bring your best name idea and a big appetite.

What to Expect During Cat Hoist Week

From the moment the cat is hoisted on May 22, the celebration begins. Here’s what’s on the menu:

RuYi Restaurant Specials – Only $8.88 Each

Food lovers are in for a treat. All week long, RuYi will offer limited-time food and beverage specials for just $8.88 each. The specially curated menu features a variety of lucky-themed dishes designed to delight:

• Lucky Cat Dim Sum Platter – A flavorful combo featuring pork bao, shumai, the signature Lucky Cat Roll, and an almond cookie.
• Lucky Cat Cocktail – A surprise specialty drink crafted just for the occasion. (Full details coming soon).

Whether you're a dim sum enthusiast or just looking to try something new, RuYi is the place to be during Cat Hoist Week to try great food.

Exclusive Lucky Cat Swag and Collectibles

Take home a piece of the celebration with exclusive Lucky Cat merchandise available throughout the week. Quantities are limited, so be sure to grab yours while supplies last. Collectible items include:

• Lucky Cat keychains
• Branded T-shirts
• Pull tabs for a chance to win exciting prizes

These fun souvenirs are perfect for commemorating this one-of-a-kind event.

Join the Fun Online – Social Media Contest

Can’t get enough of the Cat Hoist? Follow us on social media @potawatomi_mke to stay in the loop. We’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes content, exclusive updates, and special features all week long.

Plan Your Visit

Located in the heart of Milwaukee, Potawatomi Casino Hotel offers everything you need for a memorable stay, gaming, dining, entertainment, and of course, RuYi’s culinary excellence. Make the most of the RuYi Cat Hoist week with these quick tips:

• Arrive early on May 22 to witness the hoist and join in the birthday celebration.
• Grab an entry form and submit as many name ideas as you’d like.
• Try the specials: our $8.88 price point is a lucky nod to the prosperity symbolized by the number 8 in many Asian cultures.
• Follow @potawatomi_mke on social for real-time updates and winner reveals.
• Visit RuYi at any point during the week to take in the festive atmosphere and iconic cat.

This RuYi Cat Hoist is a celebration of shared culture, community spirit, and good fortune. Inspired by the traditions of the Maneki-neko, this event unites guests through fun, food, and creativity. Potawatomi Casino Hotel takes pride in embracing both tradition and innovation and this event is no exception. It draws attention for the meaningful experiences it creates.

Come celebrate the biggest lucky cat in Wisconsin only at Potawatomi Casino Hotel. Don’t forget to tag us using #PotawatomiCasinoHotel on Facebook, Instagram, or X.