Introduction
Over the years, furry conventions have grown from small, local meetups to massive events that draw thousands of attendees from around the globe. These conventions are more than just social gatherings; they are cultural phenomena that showcase the creativity, camaraderie, and spirit of the furry community. The largest of these conventions have become cornerstone events in the fandom, with some now rivaling the size and scope of major pop culture conventions.
In this article, we’ll explore the world’s biggest furry conventions, delving into what makes each one special and why they hold such an important place in the hearts of furries worldwide. From the bustling streets of Pittsburgh to the vibrant city of Berlin, these conventions offer a glimpse into the heart of the fandom and the incredible community that makes it all possible.
What Defines a “Large” Furry Convention?
Furry conventions are essential gatherings for the furry community, and several factors contribute to a convention being considered “large.”
- Attendance Numbers: A key indicator is the number of attendees, with large conventions attracting thousands, sometimes over 10,000, from around the world.
- Venue Size and Capacity: These conventions are held in expansive venues, such as large hotels or convention centers, capable of hosting numerous events and activities for a vast audience.
- Duration and Programming: Major conventions typically last three to four days, offering a diverse range of panels, workshops, fursuit parades, and social events, ensuring something for everyone.
- Global Recognition: Conventions like Anthrocon and Eurofurence are globally recognized within the furry fandom, drawing international attention and solidifying their status as major events.
In summary, a “large” furry convention is defined by high attendance, a spacious venue, extensive programming, and a notable impact both locally and globally. Now, let’s get into the biggest furry cons from around the world.
Atlanta Furry Convention
Image via New York Post
Anthrocon (Pittsburgh, USA)
Anthrocon, held annually in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is one of the largest and most iconic furry conventions in the world. Established in 1997, Anthrocon began as a small gathering of enthusiasts but quickly grew in size and reputation. Today, it is a cornerstone of the furry community, attracting attendees from across the globe.
History and Origins:
Anthrocon started in Albany, New York, before moving to its current home in Pittsburgh in 2006. This move marked a turning point, allowing the convention to expand significantly in both attendance and programming. The choice of Pittsburgh was strategic, as the city’s David L. Lawrence Convention Center provided ample space to accommodate the growing number of participants and events.
Attendance Statistics:
Anthrocon regularly boasts attendance numbers exceeding 10,000, making it one of the largest furry conventions in the world. The convention has seen steady growth over the years, with each new edition attracting more furries, artists, and creators eager to participate in the event’s diverse offerings.
Event Highlights:
One of the standout features of Anthrocon is its extensive programming. Attendees can enjoy a wide range of activities, including panels, workshops, art shows, and one of the largest fursuit parades in the world. The parade, which often includes over 2,000 participants, is a highlight, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the furry community.
Community Impact:
Anthrocon has become more than just a convention; it’s a beloved event within Pittsburgh, embraced by the local community. The convention significantly boosts the local economy, filling hotels and restaurants with visitors. Pittsburgh’s warm reception of the event, often dubbed “Furries Welcome” by locals, has fostered a unique relationship between the city and the furry fandom.
Anthrocon’s impact extends beyond its immediate community, serving as a model for other conventions and a central hub for the furry community worldwide. Its growth and success reflect the expanding reach and acceptance of the furry fandom in mainstream culture.
Image From Anthrocon 2023
Image via The Pitt News
Commissioning a fursuit has never been so easy!
Midwest FurFest (Chicago, USA)
Midwest FurFest, commonly referred to as MFF, is another major event in the furry convention circuit, held annually in Chicago, Illinois. Since its inception, MFF has rapidly grown to become one of the largest and most beloved furry conventions in the world.
Background:
Midwest FurFest began in 2000 as an offshoot of the furry magazine InFurNation and quickly gained traction within the furry community. Originally held in Arlington Heights, Illinois, the convention moved to a larger venue in Rosemont, a suburb of Chicago, as its popularity soared. This move allowed MFF to expand its programming and accommodate the increasing number of attendees.
Attendance Figures:
In recent years, Midwest FurFest has seen attendance figures rivaling even the largest conventions, with numbers exceeding 13,000 attendees. This growth has been fueled by the convention’s reputation for being welcoming, inclusive, and packed with diverse programming that appeals to all segments of the furry fandom.
Signature Events:
Midwest FurFest is known for its wide variety of programming, catering to furries of all interests. The convention features an extensive dealer’s den, artist alley, fursuit parades, and a multitude of panels and workshops covering topics from art and writing to fursuit making and social issues within the fandom. One of the most anticipated events at MFF is the nightly dances, which attract large crowds and are renowned for their energy and atmosphere.
Influence on the Fandom:
MFF has established itself as a key player in shaping the furry community, particularly in the Midwest region of the United States. Its inclusive and welcoming environment makes it a favorite among both newcomers and veteran furries. The convention also places a strong emphasis on charity, raising significant funds each year for various organizations, further solidifying its positive impact both within and beyond the furry fandom.
The success and growth of Midwest FurFest are a testament to the thriving and evolving nature of the furry community. Its reputation for being a fun, inclusive, and diverse event ensures it will remain a staple in the furry convention calendar for years to come.
Image From Midwest FurFest 2021
Image via Flickr
Eurofurence (Berlin, Germany)
Eurofurence, often abbreviated as EF, is the largest furry convention in Europe and one of the most prominent in the world. Held annually in Berlin, Germany, Eurofurence has become a major event for furries across the continent and beyond.
Origins and Growth:
Eurofurence was founded in 1995, making it one of the oldest furry conventions still in operation. It began as a small gathering in a youth hostel in Germany, with just a handful of attendees. Over the years, it has grown exponentially, moving to increasingly larger venues to accommodate the rising number of participants. Since 2014, Eurofurence has been held at the Estrel Hotel and Convention Center in Berlin, a massive venue that can support the thousands of furries who attend each year.
Participant Demographics:
Eurofurence draws a diverse crowd from all over Europe and beyond. While the majority of attendees are from Germany and other European countries, the convention also attracts a significant number of international visitors, making it a truly global event. This diversity is reflected in the convention’s programming, which often includes panels and events in multiple languages.
Special Features:
Eurofurence is known for its high-quality programming and unique cultural elements. Each year, the convention adopts a different theme, which is reflected in everything from the decorations to the events. Eurofurence also boasts a large dealer’s den, art show, and fursuit parade, along with numerous panels, workshops, and social events. One of the highlights of the convention is the annual PawPet Show, a large-scale puppet show that has become a beloved tradition at EF.
Cultural Impact:
Eurofurence has played a crucial role in fostering and uniting the European furry community. It serves as a central hub where furries from across Europe can come together to share their passion and creativity. The convention’s success has inspired the creation of other furry events across Europe, helping to grow the fandom on the continent. Additionally, Eurofurence has a positive impact on the local economy, with thousands of attendees filling hotels and restaurants in Berlin each year.
Eurofurence’s blend of cultural richness, diverse programming, and strong community focus has cemented its place as a premier furry convention. It continues to set the standard for furry events in Europe, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Image From Eurofurence 2016
Image via Wikimedia Commons
Furry Weekend Atlanta (Atlanta, USA)
Furry Weekend Atlanta, often abbreviated as FWA, is a major furry convention held annually in Atlanta, Georgia. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and strong community focus, FWA has become one of the most popular furry conventions in the United States.
Founding and Development:
Furry Weekend Atlanta was established in 2004, with the goal of creating a fun and inclusive event for furries in the southeastern United States. What started as a smaller regional gathering has quickly grown into a significant event on the furry convention calendar, attracting attendees from across the country and beyond. The convention has steadily increased in size, moving to larger venues in Atlanta to accommodate its expanding participant base.
Attendance and Expansion:
In recent years, FWA has seen impressive growth, with attendance numbers surpassing 8,000 participants. This rapid expansion is a testament to the convention’s appeal and the strong sense of community it fosters. FWA’s growth has also been driven by its reputation for being a welcoming and inclusive event, making it a favorite among furries of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Noteworthy Events:
Furry Weekend Atlanta is known for its dynamic programming and lively atmosphere. The convention offers a wide range of activities, including a large dealer’s den, artist alley, fursuit parades, and an extensive lineup of panels and workshops. FWA is particularly famous for its high-energy dance parties, which are among the most popular events of the convention. The dances, featuring well-known DJs from within the fandom, are a highlight for many attendees, offering a chance to let loose and enjoy the vibrant nightlife that FWA is known for.
Image From Furry Weekend Atlanta 2024
Image via Barton Fox on Youtube
Confuzzled (Birmingham, UK)
Confuzzled, often abbreviated as CFz, is the United Kingdom’s largest furry convention, held annually in Birmingham. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and well-organized events, Confuzzled has grown steadily since its inception, becoming a central hub for furries in the UK and beyond.
History:
Confuzzled was first held in 2008, making it a relatively young convention compared to others on this list. However, it quickly gained popularity due to its friendly environment and strong community focus. Initially held in Manchester, Confuzzled eventually moved to Birmingham to accommodate its growing number of attendees and to take advantage of the city’s excellent transport links, making it more accessible to furries from across the UK and Europe.
Growth and Popularity:
Confuzzled has seen impressive growth since its early days, with attendance numbers now exceeding 2,000 participants. The convention’s popularity is driven by its reputation for being well-organized, with a strong focus on creating an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Confuzzled is particularly known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among both first-time convention-goers and seasoned furries.
Unique Aspects:
What sets Confuzzled apart from other conventions is its attention to detail and the variety of its programming. Each year, the convention adopts a different theme, which is reflected in its events, decorations, and activities. The convention features a large dealer’s den, artist alley, fursuit parade, and a wide range of panels and workshops. One of the unique aspects of Confuzzled is its charity auction, which has become a highlight of the event, raising significant funds for various causes each year. Another popular feature is the convention’s focus on the arts, with a strong emphasis on promoting and showcasing furry artists and creators.
Impact on the UK Furry Scene:
Confuzzled has had a significant impact on the furry community in the UK, serving as the country’s premier furry event. It provides a central gathering point for UK furries, fostering connections and collaborations within the community. The convention’s success has also inspired the growth of other, smaller furry events across the UK, helping to strengthen and expand the furry fandom within the region.
Confuzzled’s combination of excellent organization, a welcoming atmosphere, and a strong focus on community and charity has made it a standout event in the furry convention scene. Its continued growth and popularity ensure that it will remain a key event for furries in the UK and beyond.
Confuzzled Mascot
Image via Confuzzled
Conclusion
Furry conventions like Anthrocon, Midwest FurFest, Eurofurence, Furry Weekend Atlanta, and Confuzzled are more than just events; they are the heart of the furry community, offering unique experiences where creativity and connection thrive. These gatherings not only unite furries from around the world but also have a positive impact on their host cities, fostering understanding and acceptance.
As the fandom grows, so too will these conventions, continuing to provide spaces for celebration and friendship. Whether you’re a veteran attendee or a first-timer, these conventions offer an unmatched opportunity to dive into the vibrant world of the furry fandom.
