Furries return to Pittsburgh for Anthrocon
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The furries are back in the 'Burgh for Anthrocon.
The four-day event at the David L. Lawerence Convention Center will host thousands of furries from around the nation and every continent except Antarctica.
"Pittsburgh really opens its arms to our attendees -- the merchants Downtown, the restauranteurs, the hotels," Anthrocon public outreach director John Cole said. "We're scattered across 16 hotels in the Downtown area this year. Everyone treats our attendees with a warmth and a welcoming that you just don't see in other cities."
Each have their own story and fursuit.
"It means a lot to me to be myself and not be judged, which is a big part of the furriedom," said Anthrocon attendee Nymeria.
Some costumes are basic but others are very elaborate and expensive.
"It was about $2,400 for just the head, the bodysuit, was about seven grand altogether," Nymeria said.
It all started in 2006 and it's grown immensely and the convention brings an enormous amount of money.
"We're estimating this year's economic impact to be around $14.5 million," said VisitPittsburgh CEO Jerad Bacher.
Pizza Parma on Liberty Avenue even changed its name and much more for the weekend.
"We have a lot of specials for them. We convert from Pizza Parma to Furryland Café," said owner Ali Budak.
"As far as customers, there's a fun level and there's a furry level," Chris Norton said at Pizza Parma.
Anthrocon lasts until July 2. The full schedule of events, including a parade, can be found online.