Ham Radio Field Day: What It Is and Why You Should Go
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The Best Weekend in Ham Radio
Field Day is the largest ham radio event of the year. Thousands of operators set up portable stations in parks, parking lots, and mountaintops — operating for 24 hours straight. If you have never been, here is why you should go and what to bring.
What is Field Day?
Held every June by the ARRL, Field Day is part contest, part emergency preparedness drill, and part social gathering. The goal: set up a temporary station off-grid and make as many contacts as possible in 24 hours. It is the perfect event for new operators.
Why You Should Go
- Try new equipment. Operators bring everything from handhelds to massive HF stations.
- Make contacts. Work stations across the country and world.
- Learn from Elmers. Experienced hams love helping newcomers.
- Free food. Most clubs fire up the grill. Hot dogs and hamburgers are traditional.
- No license needed. You can operate under a licensed control operator supervision.
What to Bring
- Your handheld radio (fully charged + spare battery)
- Programming cable — frequencies may change on site
- Notepad + pen — for logging contacts
- Chair, water, snacks, sunscreen
- Antenna if you have one
Find a Field Day Near You
Search ARRL.org/field-day for locations in your area. Most clubs welcome visitors — just introduce yourself and ask how you can help.