ARRL Field Day
ARRL Field Day: A Ham Radio Extravaganza
ARRL Field Day is an annual amateur radio event where operators across North America set up temporary stations to practice emergency communications and make as many contacts as possible within 24 hours.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: Fourth full weekend in June
- Tagged as: Amateur radio event, emergency preparedness exercise, contest
- What’s the hashtag?: #ARRLFieldDay
- When was it founded?: 1933
- Who founded it?: F.E. Handy
History of ARRL Field Day
ARRL Field Day began in 1933 as a way for amateur radio operators to test their emergency communication skills. It has since grown into the largest annual amateur radio event in North America, combining elements of emergency preparedness, technical skill demonstration, and community outreach.
Timeline
- 1933: First ARRL Field Day held
- 1941-1945: Event suspended due to World War II
- 1946: Field Day resumes after the war
- 2000s: A team makes over 10,000 contacts during a single contest for the first time
- 2020: Event adapts to global health pandemic guidelines
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 28-29 | Sat-Sun |
| 2026 | June 27-28 | Sat-Sun |
| 2027 | June 26-27 | Sat-Sun |
| 2028 | June 24-25 | Sat-Sun |
| 2029 | June 23-24 | Sat-Sun |
| 2030 | June 22-23 | Sat-Sun |
Observed
ARRL Field Day is celebrated by amateur radio enthusiasts across the United States and Canada. Participants set up temporary stations in public locations, parks, or remote areas to simulate emergency conditions and showcase their skills to the public.
Fun Facts About ARRL Field Day
- Over 35,000 people participate each year
- It’s considered the largest emergency preparedness exercise in the United States
- Participants often combine the event with camping and cookouts
- Some operators use solar power or other alternative energy sources
- Contacts can be made using various modes, including voice, Morse code, and digital
Quiz
- In what month is ARRL Field Day held?
- How long does the main event last?
- What year was the first ARRL Field Day?
(Answers: 1. June, 2. 24 hours, 3. 1933)
FAQs
Q: Can non-licensed individuals participate in ARRL Field Day?
A: Yes, many clubs welcome non-licensed individuals to observe and even operate under supervision using the club’s call sign.
Q: What is the purpose of ARRL Field Day?
A: The main purposes are to practice emergency communications, demonstrate amateur radio to the public, and enjoy a combination of competition and camaraderie.
Importance of ARRL Field Day
ARRL Field Day plays a crucial role in emergency preparedness, allowing amateur radio operators to hone their skills in setting up and operating portable stations. It also serves as an excellent opportunity to introduce the public to amateur radio and its vital role in disaster communications.
Related
- Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)
- Ham Radio Contesting
- Emergency Communications
- ARRL (American Radio Relay League)
- Portable Amateur Radio Operations
