Anthrocon 2024 Poised for Record-Breaking Attendance
Expansion of convention events set to draw more attendees and increase community impact
(PITTSBURGH, PA) – Anthrocon is back and bigger than ever. VisitPITTSBURGH today announced Anthrocon is expected to bring record-breaking attendance and economic impact to Pittsburgh next week.
With more than 15,500 furries expected to take on the city, the annual furry convention is anticipated to result in approximately $17.4 million in direct visitor spending.
“We’re excited to welcome the fursuiters back to Pittsburgh,” said Andy Ortale, Chief Sales Officer at VisitPITTSBURGH. “Each year, we have the privilege of working with the event organizers to establish strong community connections and partnerships that leave a significant and lasting impact on our city, and this year, there are several events on the docket that stand to make Anthrocon 2024 bigger and better.”
Attendees are booked across 22 partner hotels, and six shuttle routes will facilitate travel to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center (DLCC). Over the four-day event span, attendees will explore the city by foot and partake in Anthrocon’s exciting line-up of community events in and around Downtown.
- Market Square Musicians – The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership has invited a group of talented musicians attending Anthrocon to perform on July 4 during the lunchtime concerts in Market Square.
- Anthrocon Block Party – On July 6, the Anthrocon Block Party will take over Penn Avenue between 9th and 11th streets from 12 p.m. through the evening, encouraging attendees to meet with Downtown businesses and the community. Nearby restaurants and attractions are encouraged to display signage that invites the fursuiters to stop in.
- The Fursuit Parade – More than 5,000 people are expected to line the street for this world record-setting event. The Fursuit Parade will take place on July 6 beginning at 2 p.m. on 10th Street near Ft. Duquesne, proceeding south along 10th Street and routing back to the DLCC.
- Harris Theater Screening – The Harris Theater is set to join the festivities with a special screening of the Don Bluth animated film classic “The Secret of N.I.M.H.” at 4 p.m., co-presented by Anthrocon. Tickets can be purchased via the Culture Trust at trustarts.org.
In addition to these community events, Anthrocon has partnered with several local businesses, including the Carnegie Science Center and Gateway Clipper, to provide special offerings to convention-goers.
VisitPITTSBURGH will host a press conference on July 3 at 9 a.m. at the DLCC, with individual interview opportunities available following remarks from Anthrocon and VisitPITTSBURGH Chief Sales Officer Andrew Ortale. Please RSVP to Emily Hatfield by July 2.
For additional information on Anthrocon, visit VisitPITTSBURGH.com.