ODACA Day 2026: A Steampunk Celebration to Remember

What a spectacular day! ODACA Day 2026 was filled with friendship, creativity, laughter, beautiful dolls, and just the right amount of steampunk magic. Held on July 28 in New Orleans, this year’s “Steampunk Masquerade” luncheon was a wonderful celebration of ODACA’s 50th anniversary—and a day our guests won’t soon forget.

Barbara Schoenoff, ODACA President, welcomed 56 guests and opened the luncheon with a special tribute to ODACA’s remarkable 50-year history. Artist Member Donna Sims added an extra touch of celebration by generously providing each guest with a special mug featuring the ODACA logo and anniversary dates—a wonderful keepsake of this milestone year.

Then the fun began! Guests eagerly purchased tickets for the Helper items and hurried to place them in the drawing bags. With 24 gorgeous dolls created by ODACA and other artists waiting to find new homes, there was plenty of anticipation in the room. We were also delighted to welcome our newest Artist Member, Amy Felske. Amy creates wonderfully colorful cloth dragons and fascinating fantasy figures, and we’re thrilled to have her join the ODACA family.

The room quickly came alive with conversation as artists, patrons, and guests caught up on adventures, activities, and life since their last gathering. Old friendships were renewed, new friendships blossomed, and everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch with a taste of New Orleans.

And then came one of the highlights of the afternoon—the centerpiece dolls!

The seven ODACA artists who created the spectacular dolls for the luncheon tables each shared the story behind their creation. Every doll was unique, imaginative, and completely enthralling. The presentations were a huge hit, with many guests commenting on how much they enjoyed hearing the inspiration and stories behind these special works of art.

But the excitement didn’t stop there. It was time for the drawings!

Each table held its own drawing, and seven very happy guests went home with the coveted centerpiece dolls. There were smiles, cheers, and plenty of happy congratulations as these lovingly handcrafted steampunk creations found their new homes.

And just when everyone thought the excitement might be winding down—wait! There was still the Helper doll drawing!

The room erupted with oohs, ahs, cheers, and delighted shouts as one beautiful doll after another found a new owner. The Helper drawing is always one of the most eagerly anticipated moments of ODACA Day, and this year was no exception. Even those who didn’t take home a doll weren’t empty-handed. Guests returned home with wonderful table favors generously created and donated by their fellow attendees—everything from tiny dolls and beautiful brooches to candy and an assortment of charming handmade treasures.

The ODACA Salesroom

The fun continued in the ODACA Salesroom, where 14 talented ODACA artists filled the room with an extraordinary array of one-of-a-kind dolls.

There was something to delight every collector: needle-felted, fabric, felt, wood, polymer, paper clay, and mixed-media dolls, all showcasing the incredible variety and creativity of ODACA’s artists. Tables were overflowing with gorgeous works of art, and collectors had the rare opportunity to purchase a truly one-of-a-kind creation directly from the artist who made it.

Just as special was the opportunity to talk dolls with the artists themselves, share stories, admire techniques, and discover the inspiration behind their creations.

The Salesroom was open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closing only during the luncheon from noon to 2:00 p.m. And because ODACA Day is open to the public, you didn’t need a UFDC conference ticket to join the fun. For collectors, it was a wonderful one-day-only opportunity to see and purchase an amazing selection of original artist dolls.

And Now…On to the Secret Garden!

The steampunk gears have barely stopped turning, and already ODACA artists are dreaming about next year!

ODACA Day 2027 will take us somewhere completely different with the enchanting theme “Secret Garden.” Artists are already buzzing with ideas about the magical dolls they might create, and the first glimpse of next year’s event poster is already waiting on the ODACA website’s Events page.

Be sure to check back often for updates—and start thinking about a trip to Schaumburg, Illinois for ODACA Day 2027.

A magical garden is waiting to be discovered, and we’d love to see you there!