If you're not familiar with Otakon, the three-day Anime fest going on right now at the convention center, it tends to draw an ... interesting ... crowd of very ... enthusiastic fans.

If you're downtown today, tomorrow or Sunday, I'm sure you'll see them (pink hair, leather and various other costumes are dead giveaways). In fact, these fans are so enthusiastic that the festival had to set some rules on its Web site. Here's a sampling:

"NO LIVE STEEL at all will be permitted on the premises of the BCC. Live steel is defined as swords, knives, bayonets, and/or other objects made of metal, which can take an edge. This holds true regardless of whether the object is actually sharp. This includes star knives/shurikens. A sheathed sword is still live steel."

However, "Staves, bo sticks, boken, shinai, and wooden swords will be permitted."

Then there's the whole public display of affection policy:

"Those members wishing to post notices or find other people should use the bulletin boards provided. Please note that signs asking for food, money, hugs, etc. are considered panhandling by the Baltimore Police department, and signs offering to exchange any sort of sexual favor (kisses, hugs, glomps, etc.) are considered solicitation. Signs with offensive content are not allowed regardless of whether they are 'in character.'"

Hope this helps clear up any questions you might have. Have a great weekend!