They wear animal costumes, write theatre plays and perform as puppet masters – it's the Eurofurence Convention in Magdeburg.
Fans of the so-called furry-genre - all things furry - discussed comics, films or costumes at the week-long convention. It mostly concerns animals that act like humans do - Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, Maja the Bee or the fox Reineke Fuchs.
The weird and wonderful costumes are not very comfortable, but that is a not a burden for the participants.
Jim Martin, of Sesame Street, was among the convention participants and explained the attraction.
"I think a lot of us grew up with cartoons and comic books - and loving our pets," explained Mr Martin. "And a lot of people like to become their animals. There is a feeling that there is a lot of animal spirit inside of us, right? And so this becomes a way of expressing that animal spirit."
Important in the display is the anthropomorphic approach; they act like animals, but in a human way. They sport human hairstyles, glasses or even wear tailcoats. They act like humans would, but they're able to be even more courageous, anxious, sly or funny.
"[It] is a another extension of us growing up and enjoying our childhood, and enjoying animals," said Mr Martin. "This is not a real animal, but it's a person who.... loves being just furry and cuddly and fun to be with."
It was originally started in 1995 as a private gathering by nineteen European furry fans who met on the internet. Attendance has been steadily rising since then. This year involved over 800 participants.
The name of the convention derives from its American back-then-counterpart ConFurence, emphasising the European nature of the gathering.
Contrary to most American furry conventions, Eurofurence traditionally takes place at youth hostels.
3 News / Reuters