EuroFURence has in the past had many events which were directly related to Furry Fandom (such as those dealing with Literature, Puppetry, Costuming, Art and Animation) and those which weren't directly anthropomorphic in any way, but happened to be interests shared by fannish-type people, for which an international gathering was an opportunity to share those interests (Gamers, MotorFurs, Amateur Radio and Electronics, International Food Exchange) and things which have happily fit "in between" (everything else).
Each year, EuroFURence sponsors a charity and has at least one "Guest of Honor"; there are usually panels or presentations featuring the guests of honor, and those are usually well-worth attending, as the guests chosen are either well-known creative figures within the fandom, or Professional Talents who are involved in producing works of Anthropomorphic interest. The chosen charity will usually have a booth and will usually make a presentation about the subject of their work - and if it is directly involved with support for animals, there may be one there to illustrate the subject (ever wanted to pet an otter, or hold a bat?).
MOTORFUR MEET - While there has always been a pride in german automotive technology, since the reunification of the country there has been a growing "car culture", and for a few years now, people who have driven to EuroFURence have gathered in a designated open space to show off their "rides". This has included cars from every nation in Western Europe where there is an auto industry, plus a few american cars, and a few Russian cars with really impressive furry-themed paint jobs. If you are a motorsport type of person, this will be of interest to you.
INTERNATIONAL SNACK EXCHANGE - this started out as an informal gathering of folks who were encouraged to bring their favorite snack foods - either traditional treats or commercial "junk food" - which might be totally unknown outside their countries of origin (Stroopwaffels? WHY DO WE NOT HAVE THESE IN THE USA?!?)...or things of which people have heard, but would otherwise never have the opportunity to try (Hostess Twinkies? ...really?...). While there are peanut-based snacks in Germany, apparently people don't get the chance to eat them roasted and salted in-the-shell, as they are commonly sold at american sporting events, most famously at Baseball games. These seemed to be popular - along with some almonds and pistachios, which I brought from California (commercially grown within 10 km of my house, actually). So if you have or know of some food snack which characterizes your homeland, bring some to share at the snack exchange!
EVENING FIRE PIT - One of the more popular features of prior EuroFURences - back when they were smaller affairs, held in Suhl at the Ringberg hotel - was a nightly campfire held at a firepit (the Ringberg was on top of a high hill or small mountain, and it got cold at night). It was fun to sit in the dark by the glowing fire, and enjoy the night, with gentle conversations about all sorts of things. But we had to give that up when EuroFURence was compelled to seek larger accommodations in Magdeburg. The Maritim was right downtown, and a firepit was not one of their ammenities.
...But the Estrel has a sand "beach" (Strand) of sorts with a small biergarten set by a canal, and there is a firepit, which EuroFURence has used both years that we have been there. EF Security take responsibility for maintaining a nice, active and bright fire, through to the wee hours of the morning, and I would say that if it isn't raining, there may be from 100 to 200 people at any one time sitting around it (people drift in and out, going on to other diversions). Who doesn't enjoy a nice campfire?
FURSUIT GAMES/"CRITTER OLYMPICS" - this is a competition to perform various stunts, individually and in teams, while in fursuit - and it is a spectator sport (with limited audience participation). I admit that I haven't seen this event since our "Roman Theme" year, but if it is staged, it is well worth watching.
CONCERT/MUSICAL EVENTS - When we have had guests with musical talent - such as Fox Amoor or Peter S. Beagle - we can hope to be treated to a concert. This MAY be a Charity Benefit, for which you must buy a ticket at the Charity Booth, but often there is an additional performance - more like a "jam session" as well. No promises on this, we need to see if such guests are invited or are otherwise in attendance, anc if they can be encouraged to perform.
In addition - besides running a major convention, and also participating in one fantastic puppet show - several of the EuroFURence staff also are professional or semi-professional musicians, who have collaborated on a number of Furry Music projects ("Furry Fantasies", "The Fauna Project"), and they have in the past assembled to perform on-stage, with furry-themed music of their own composition, and - while it is not a guaranteed, "every year" thing - If you want to get in touch with your "furry Side" with musical inspiration, and you see it in the schedule, make the time to attend.
...And then of course there are the nightly dances, "ENTER THE ARENA" (the Fursuit Dance Competition) and the game tournaments.
The panel programming may include demonstrations of things like Animatronics for Fursuits, Fursuit materials and Construction (if FurTech is attending from California), and possibly a Furry Amateur Radio discussion...but many of these things are dependent on furry fans who have the necessary expertise attending and hosting the discussion panels or making the presentations.
...Speaking of such - Arovos! Might there be any particular aspect of our hobby at which you have some knowledge, skills, or experience; and which you may wish to present (or assist others in presenting) for the benefit of your fellow furry fans?
Edit: to correct spelling of OP's name
Author
Topic: Hey ho! Newcommer asking advice! (Read 17456 times)