One of the world’s largest furry conventions returns to Pittsburgh for it’s 20th year next week.
Anthrocon will be back at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center July 2 – 5.
VisitPITTSBURGH is expecting over 18,000 attendees during the event which is expected to generate over $18.6 million in direct spending.
This year’s theme is “Critters, Cryptids & Curses” and will have several community events taking place during the convention.
Some events include:
- The Fursuit Parade – The Annual Fursuit Parade will take place on July 4, beginning at 2 p.m. inside of Hall C of the convention center, leading out onto 10th Street then routing back indoors to Hall D.
- Anthrocon Block Party – Immediately following the Fursuit Parade, the Anthrocon Block Party will take over Penn Avenue between 9th and 11th streets, with festivities lasting through the evening. Organizers are encouraging attendees to engage with Downtown businesses, and members of the public are welcome to attend.
- Harris Theater Screening – The Harris Theater is set to join the festivities with a special screening of Walt Disney’s “Robin Hood” on July 3 and the film “Robot Dreams” on July 5. Tickets can be purchased via the Culture Trust at trustarts.org.
- City Winery – The critters of comedy will take to the stage of the City Winery for an evening of stand-up on Thursday, July 2. The show is open to the public, but seating is limited.
- Gateway Clipper Fursuit Cruises: In partnership with the Gateway Clipper Fleet, Anthrocon is offering river cruises from July 3-5. A convention badge is not required to attend, but each cruise is limited to 175 passengers. Tickets are available through Anthrocon’s website.
"Over the past two decades, Anthrocon and Pittsburgh have grown together, creating a partnership that has become a defining part of our summer calendar," said Jerad Bachar, President and CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH. "Pittsburgh's welcoming spirit, creative energy and vibrant neighborhoods have made it a natural home for the Anthrocon community. In return, attendees continue to make a meaningful impact by supporting our hotels, restaurants, attractions, local businesses, and charities year after year."
