PITTSBURGH \u2014 Pittsburgh\u2019s annual furry convention is losing one of its most iconic events this year.<\/p>\n
RELATED COVERAGE >>> Preparations underway for Anthrocon in Pittsburgh this weekend<\/a><\/p>\n Anthrocon<\/a> announced late Friday that the 2026 Fursuit Parade and Block Party, originally scheduled for Saturday, has been canceled.<\/p>\n According to a statement, convention leadership had been monitoring the \u201cextreme heat and severe weather situation\u201d forecasted for this weekend, while consulting with local emergency services.<\/p>\n The decision to cancel \u201cfollows careful consideration for the health, safety and wellbeing of our fursuiters, attendees and residents of Pittsburgh,\u201d the statement says.<\/p>\n Anthrocon told attendees to look for announcements of alternative indoor activities in place of this year\u2019s parade.<\/p>\n This year\u2019s convention theme is \u201cCritters, Cryptids & Curses.\u201d Organizers had estimated that $18.6 million in economic activity would be generated through the event.<\/p>\n Allegheny County is under a Code Red Heat Advisory<\/a> through Saturday.<\/p>\n The heat wave gripping parts of the U.S. comes as Americans celebrate the nation\u2019s 250th anniversary. <\/p>\n It poses a challenge for Independence Day event organizers, including in the City of Pittsburgh<\/a>, which is preparing to host its largest July 4 celebration.<\/p>\n Download the FREE WPXI News app<\/a> for breaking news alerts.<\/p>\n Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook<\/a> and Twitter<\/a>. | Watch WPXI NOW<\/a><\/p>\n TOP STORIES FROM CHANNEL 11 NEWS <\/p>\n \u00a92026 Cox Media Group<\/p>\n