Furries have spent a lot time being the butt of jokes, considered by even 4chan as perverts and serious weirdos, a seedy underbelly of the internet. But does the most maligned group online deserve such a terrible reputation? After spending three days among furries at a convention this weekend, I can confirm they are indeed huge weirdos, but they also have an endearing wholesome earnestness. And more importantly they are really, really fun.

Anthrocon is the largest furry convention in the world, held in Pittsburgh since 2005. Approximately 5,000 people attended with 1,000 of those in full fursuits. The distinction between those in fursuits and those without isn't an accurate meter for level of dedication. The suits start around $2,000, so many who would like to wear a suit simply can't afford it, especially younger furries in high school or college. A group of recent college grads I spoke with all wished they had suits but it wasn't in their budgets. Meanwhile, the convention admission is a reasonable $60 for 4 days.

The Pittsburgh convention center has a main large hall for vendors of furry accessories and an "artists alley" where you can commission artists to create artworks of your furry character. In smaller rooms, there are panel discussions, meet-and-greets for groups by species, and board game rooms. There was also a talent show, dance competition, and performances by a furry acrobat from Japan. At night, a ballroom turned into a booze-free dance party.