Question about the parade
Hi all,
While I'm not a furry or maybe not yet. I've watched the parades on youtube and was wondering can anyone come and watch the parade or do you have to register for con? I work in downtown pgh not to far from the convention center.
Thanks 
Jim
Ordinarily anyone in the convention venue, usually including Hotel Staff and other guests, is free to watch the parade. However, due to the unique dimensions of the convention venue, the parade will be limited to the David Lawrence Center itself. I do not think the general public is permitted in the Convention Center. Also the Parade is Saturday afternoon.
servicing the furry flag community since 2009
We're checking into this (I personally do not know the exact route of the fursuit parade), but the absolute worst case scenario is that you would have to have to purchase a 1 day membership to the con for $25.
(The upside of having to spend $25 is that it would also get you into the Dealers Room, Artists Alley, and Art Show, where you can check out furry art, fursuits, etc.)
It's close to the con, but we'll try to get you a definite answer in a day or two.
We're checking with the Convention Center, but I believe that the answer will be no. Since Anthrocon is not a public event and the Convention Center is not public property, people are likely not going to be permitted inside unless they are Anthrocon members or are attending another event in the Center (of which there are none that we know of).
The parade is planned to go out onto the balcony, weather permitting, although unless you have a boat you'd need a telephoto lens to see it from the opposite side of the river.
Easy enough to pick up a one-day membership, though. They're just $25, and who knows -- you may find lots more that you'll enjoy at our convention in addition to the parade!
Saturday has some of our best programming, culminating with a performance by "2 the Ranting Gryphon." You may have seen him on YouTube as well. He's well worth the price of a membership!
Did you get paid by 2 for that advertising?
LOL
I can understand not being able to afford to get in. If that's the case, or you just don't have the time, hang out around the hotel. Many of us costumers like to entertain the general public (con-goers seem to have gotten a bit bored with fursuiters...I mean, they do see them ALL...THE...TIME) and I for one plan to go out with a group outside and into downtown to entertain the general public.
I agree that you'd be better ahead paying for a one day pass though. Lots to do. But worry not if you haven't. You may not be able to see the parade, but performances are usually much better outside the parade anyway (it's rather difficult to perform constantly for that length of time, and sadly not all costumers are great performers.) Also, you can see the parade on YouTube after its posted.
Seriously though, get a one day pass!
Edit: Official answer above (or below, depending on your settings).