Letter from the Chairperson for Furcationland 2026

This year has brought a lot of changes. While change is exciting, it can also be incredibly stressful! Through it all, the one thing I’ve found that helps the most is the people we choose to surround ourselves with.

This year, I officially made my move to Maine. Leaving New York—the only home I’ve ever known—was daunting, but I’ve fallen completely in love with Portland and this beautiful state. It’s definitely tough being so far away from my mom and brother, but building this new chapter with my husband and the friends I’ve made here in New England makes it all worth it. Plus, I’ve become quite the frequent flier to visit my old home!

The New England furry community is truly special. I felt that magic before I even started this journey, and I’ve continued to feel it year in and year out as I’ve chaired Furcationland. I feel it even more deeply now that this is the place I call home. I see the Furcationland staff as my family. I don’t know many other events where the team gets together for summer barbecues, takes group trips to Six Flags, or gathers after the winter holidays just to have a second celebration with their fur family.

Putting together an event like this as an unpaid volunteer is a massive undertaking. There are moments when the sheer amount of blood, sweat, and tears can feel overwhelming. I’ve certainly gotten emotional, and I’ve watched my staff—my family—push themselves to the limit because of how much they love what they do. In the hardest moments, it’s easy to ask, “Is it really worth it? Will anyone notice the effort?” But the second we are on the ground making this convention happen for all of you, the answer becomes incredibly clear.

I hope it shows just how much heart our team has poured into making this the most fun event possible! We’re keeping our pawdigits crossed for good weather this weekend. We can’t wait to see all you animals playing games, relaxing in the beer garden, listening to live music, sampling treats from the food trucks, and checking out our expanded car show. Furthermore, I’m delighted to announce that we are returning to Monument Square, where the Fursuit Parade will proceed directly this year, weather permitting. (Déjà vu!)

As our attendance grows, we continue to expand our footprint into Portland. Please take a look at the ads in the con book and on our stream, FCL TV. We highly encourage taking a walk or a ride to support the local businesses that have partnered with us. Many of them have spoken so highly of Furcationland and absolutely can’t wait to see you fuzzballs walk through their doors!

I hope this letter conveys just how invaluable our staff and volunteers are. If someone working at our event does something you appreciate, please let them know! A simple “thank you” is the only paycheck we receive, and it truly means the world to us.

Without further ado, I’d like to welcome everyone to Furcationland 2026: Harbor Howl!