What Is ARRL Field Day?
ARRL Field Day is the largest amateur radio event in North America, held annually on the fourth full weekend of June. For 24 hours — from 2:00 PM Saturday to 2:00 PM Sunday (local time) — thousands of amateur radio operators set up stations in parks, fields, parking lots, and backyards to make as many contacts as possible.
Field Day is simultaneously a contest, a public demonstration, and an emergency preparedness exercise. Its spirit captures much of what makes amateur radio unique: technical skill, community, self-sufficiency, and the joy of radio communication.
The Purpose Behind Field Day
Field Day was designed with emergency communications in mind. Participants are encouraged to operate from temporary, portable setups using emergency power sources — generators, solar panels, or batteries — rather than commercial power. The goal is to demonstrate that ham radio operators can communicate effectively when normal infrastructure fails.
This training aspect is very real. Many Field Day participants are also members of ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) or RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) groups that provide communication support during actual emergencies.
How the Scoring Works
Field Day uses a point-based scoring system that rewards:
- Contacts made: Each completed QSO earns points. CW contacts are worth more than phone contacts, which are worth more than digital contacts — reflecting the skill required.
- Operating category: Groups operating with more limitations (fewer transmitters, battery power only) earn bonus multipliers.
- Bonus points: Awarded for activities like satellite contacts, using natural power, media/public outreach, setting up an information table, and more.
The result is that a small group running QRP battery power can be more competitive than a large club running high power — the rules favor creativity and operating efficiency.
Operating Categories
| Class | Description |
|---|---|
| 1A / 2A / 3A... | Club/group operating portable, generator or battery power |
| 1B / 2B... | Portable operation using natural power only (solar/wind/water) |
| 1C / 2C... | Mobile operation from vehicles |
| 1D / 2D... | Home station with emergency power backup |
| 1E / 2E... | Home station on commercial power (eligible for fewer bonuses) |
Finding a Field Day Event Near You
Most local amateur radio clubs participate in Field Day and welcome visitors — licensed or not. The ARRL maintains a Field Day locator on their website (arrl.org/field-day) where you can search for events near your zip code. Many sites actively encourage the public to come watch, try a radio contact, and learn about amateur radio.
If you're a new licensee, attending a club Field Day is one of the best things you can do. You'll make contacts on every band and mode, get mentorship from experienced operators, and experience the camaraderie that defines the hobby.
Tips for Your First Field Day
- Arrive early: Setup begins well before the operating period starts. Helping set up antennas is a great way to learn.
- Try different modes: Field Day is a perfect opportunity to try CW, SSB voice, and digital modes all in one event.
- Take an operating shift: Even 30 minutes in the operator's seat during a busy Field Day is excellent practice.
- Bring food and water: Many clubs make it a social event with cookouts and community.
- Log everything: If you're operating, accurate logging is important for the club's score submission.
Beyond Field Day: Other Great Events
If Field Day sparks your interest in operating events, the ham radio calendar is full of opportunities:
- CQ World Wide DX Contest: One of the largest contests globally, held in October.
- Sweepstakes: A uniquely American contest testing contacts across North America.
- Parks on the Air (POTA): Activate national and state parks on the radio — active year-round.
- Summits on the Air (SOTA): Operate from mountain summits for points and adventure.
Amateur radio's event calendar means there's always something to participate in, whether you prefer the intensity of contesting or the relaxed exploration of portable operating in the outdoors.