If you're into anthropomorphic art or simply like cartoon animals, Anthrocon is a place for you to be. The organizers call it a furry convention, and it truly is, with such traditional elements as meet-and-greets, workshops, and seminars. The participants can learn fursuit sewing, discover the history of anthropomorphic art, and obtain some knowledge in animation, design, and writing.
Fursuit Parade
The most vivid part of Anthrocon is surely the iconic Fursuit Parade that usually takes place on Saturday in downtown Pittsburgh. Before the procession, all the participants must arrive for a lineup at Convention Center Hall C at 11 am. The doors to the hall close at 1:30 pm, so if you'd like to show off your furry suit, consider showing up early.
Up to 2,000 fursuiters set off to the so-called "walking art show" at 2 pm from the Convention Center to the streets of Pittsburgh. About 7 thousands of spectators come to see this exuberant celebration. Furry dance parties and fireworks are welcome additions to the festivities. After an exciting march, the procession stops at Hall D, where they can cool off and return to the Block Party, another exciting event.
To become a fursuiter, you have to wear a cartoon animal costume, or at least ears, paws, or a tail. But everyone who joins the parade is welcome, even if they wear a casual outfit.
Anthrocon Furries Block Party
Another highlight of the convention is the Block Party, an event that only started a few years ago, but has already become well-loved among the furry fandom and Pittsburgh locals. Block Party begins right after the Fursuit Parade and takes place outdoors on Penn Avenue, in front of the convention center. If you're curious about the culture of furries, this is a great opportunity to interact with them, take pictures, and get to know new people. And if you're a fursuiter, feel free to show off your creativity in the form of your costume.
Penn Avenue will be closed to oncoming traffic from 9th to 11th Street from 12 pm to 10 pm. To help combat the heat, organizers will set up a few tented zones for the fursuiters. Additionally, food trucks and food vendors will be right there to offer everyone refreshing beverages and delicious snacks.
Anthrocon River Cruise
If you're new to Pittsburg or would like to explore the landmarks and views of the city, River Cruise is just the right to do. One of the two available boats, The Princess or The Three Rivers Queen, will take you along the Allegheny River. Convention Center Riverfront Plaza will be the main boarding point for the cruise. Two options for the excursion are available during the Anthrocon: the Sightseeing Cruise and the Evening Cocktail Cruise.
Sightseeing Cruise
The Sightseeing Cruise will take place on July 4th, 5th, and 7th, with boarding at 12:30 on July 4th and 7th. The boarding will begin at 2:30 on July 5th. On July 4th and 7th, you'll be able to enjoy the view of the Pittsburgh riverside from 1 to 2 pm, while on July 5th, the cruise will run from 3 pm until 4 pm. The ticket for the Sightseeing Cruise costs $25.
Evening Cocktail Cruise
If you'd like to sip an exquisite drink while enjoying the evening breeze, consider joining the Evening Cocktail Cruise. The excursion takes place on July 6th, starting with boarding at 6:30 pm. The boat will drift along the Allegheny River from 7 pm to 9 pm. During the tour, you'll be able to enjoy delectable appetizers and cocktails, which you can purchase in exchange for the drink tickets. Admission to the cruise costs $65.
Other Entertainment Options
Besides the Fursuit Parade, the cruise, and the Block Party, the convention will also include numerous panels and craft workshops. Those who'd like to demonstrate their talent can swing by the stage section of the venue, where all registered participants perform every year. From standup to dancing and singing, the convention has something for everyone.
The Nightly Dances is also a favorite pastime for the regular attendees of the festival. All the fursuiters and convention visitors dance to their hearts' content to electronic, trap, pop, and hip-hop music. The venue is equipped with light and visual effects, which will enhance complete immersion and excitement.
Fursuit Dance Competition (July 7)
One of the most anticipated events of the convention is the Fursuit Dance Competition, in which the furries compete for the title of best dancer. The participants are welcome to compete either solo or in groups. The main criteria that judges will base their decision on are execution, showmanship, dynamics, and musicality. Get your costume on and impress everyone with your dance moves!
Anthrocon Tickets
To participate in the furry convention, you can register online or buy a pass at the gates. Ticket sales normally open in October and run until June. Admission to Anthrocon costs $65 if you pre-register online and $80 if you buy a ticket on-site.
Location
The annual event takes place at David L. Lawrence Convention Center in late June or early July, normally within the 4th of July weekend. It's situated in downtown Pittsburg on the riverside of the Allegheny River. Anthrocon partners with several hotels for the duration of the convention and will organize shuttles between the venue and the accommodations. The shuttles will be operating from 8 am to 3 am from Thursday to Saturday, and from 8 am to 12 am on Saturday.
History of Anthrocon
Even though Anthrocon calls Pittsburgh home, it wasn't always so. The event started in Albany, NY, back in 1997 and was among the world's first events dedicated to anthropomorphic characters. The convention moved to Pennsylvania in 1999 and traveled around the state until it finally settled down in Pittsburgh in 2006. Since then, the Burgh has remained the host city of this unconventional convention.
