If you go to a Downtown restaurant this weekend and spy folks wearing animal ears and tails, just go with it.
From Thursday through Sunday, Pittsburgh will host Anthrocon, a celebration of “Furry” fandom that has called the David L. Lawrence Convention Center its home since 2006.
Even though Anthrocon has become a summer tradition, most Pittsburghers probably have a lot of questions about the event’s niche appeal. Here is a quick primer for anyone unfamiliar with Anthrocon and Furry culture:
What is Anthrocon?
According to its website, “Anthrocon is the world's largest convention for those fascinated with anthropomorphics, which are humanlike animal characters such as have fascinated mankind since the dawn of human imagination.”
Basically, it is a convention for people passionate about cartoon animals, particularly those who like to dress up as said animals and come up with “Fursonas,” aka names and backstories for their characters.
How long has this been a thing?
The first Anthrocon took place in 1997 in Albany, N.Y. The convention moved two years later to Valley Forge, Pa., and Philadelphia hosted it in 2001 before Anthrocon finally settled in Pittsburgh in 2006.
Last year’s convention drew 7,308 attendees, almost triple the number of people who showed up in 2006.
What is a Furry?
A Furry is just the name for enthusiasts of anthropomorphic. Consider it the equivalent of cosplayers, who dress like their favorite fantasy or science fiction characters, or even mascots, who dress up like animals specifically to entertain the crowd at sporting events.
All three groups view their fandom (or job in the case of mascots) as a type of performance art. The Post-Gazette profiled a few Furries attending a previous Anthrocon, and it is clear how much work they put into their Fursonas and how much they value the Furry community.
So Anthrocon is basically Comic Con for Furries?
Yes! Everyone attending Anthrocon is there to enjoy the cool costumes, buy some animal-related artwork and enjoy a day surrounded by thousands of like-minded individuals.
Unlike most Comic Cons though, Anthrocon also donates a portion of its profits every year to a local charity or institution. For example, last year’s convention raised $32,579 for The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.
But why would anyone want to dress up like an animal?
Why does anyone do anything creative? There may be other, more personal reasons to don a Furry suit, but like writing, painting or filming, Furry fandom is mainly a form of artistic expression.
For Anthrocon specifically, many Furries will want to participate in the Fursuit Parade, which will involve more than 1,000 of those in costume walking a pre-planned route in the convention center. The 2017 Parade will be held on Saturday, July 1, from 2-4 p.m., starting in the convention center’s Hall A.
Where do they get their fursuits?
Some buy them online, but others are so dedicated to their craft that they make one themselves. Anthrocon’s website provides resources for anyone interested in obtaining a fursuit or creating their own.
What do I do if I see a Furry outside the convention center?
Nothing? Why is this even a question?
If you are really curious about what you are seeing, politely ask the PERSON about his or her costume. Going up and touching a fursuit or harassing him or her in any way is never OK.
This actually sounds kind of cool.
Right? There is no shame in admitting Anthrocon might be up your alley.
It might especially be of interest to Pirates fans, as this year’s convention theme is “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” Maybe the Pirate Parrot will make an appearance!
Can I still get tickets for this year’s Anthrocon?
Of course! Tickets are on sale through Anthrocon’s website. You can buy a one-day pass for $30, a four-day one for $60 or spring for one of the more expensive ticket packages that come with perks and merchandise.
So remember: If you see someone in a colorful animal costume this weekend, remember that just like anyone wearing black and gold paraphernalia, all Furries want to do is celebrate their fandom.
Let them have this weekend to rock their fur in public without judgment.
First Published: June 27, 2017, 3:26 p.m.
