Field Day

RARS 2026 Field Day

Ham it up: Rowan radio society joins nat’l event Salisbury Post article by Janet Briggs

Celebrating the Power and Possibility of Ham Radio

Join the Rowan Amateur Radio Society for ARRL Field Day 2026 – a full weekend dedicated to the art and science of amateur radio. Field Day is amateur radio’s largest on-air event, bringing together radio amateurs, hobbyists, students, and curious newcomers to set up stations, make contacts across the country, and demonstrate how hams communicate when traditional infrastructure is unavailable.

Whether you’re a seasoned operator or have never touched a radio, come out and see what amateur radio is all about. All ages and experience levels are welcome.

When & Where

  • Dates: Saturday, June 27 – Sunday, June 28, 2026
  • On-Air Operating Begins: 2:00 PM Saturday (runs around the clock into Sunday)
  • Location: Rowan County Rescue Squad, 1140 Julian Rd, Salisbury, NC 28146

Visitors are welcome to come out once operating begins Saturday afternoon.

License Testing On Site

VE Testing Canceled 6/27/2026

We will have VE testing on site Saturday morning for anyone looking to earn their first license or upgrade.

  • Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Test Fee: $12.00 (cash only)
  • VE Team: WB4QOC – Metrolina W4VEC VE Team (W4VEC Volunteer Examiners Club of America)
  • Register: HamStudy Session Page

Exam-day requirements (IDs, FRN, license copies, fee) are listed on the HamStudy session page. Please contact the session manager, Fred, WB4QOC, with any questions about testing.

What to Expect

This year’s Field Day will feature a range of stations and activities, including:

  • HF Voice and CW Stations – Reach across the country and log contacts on the HF bands.
  • Digital Modes – See how modern software turns weak signals into reliable communication.
  • Portable and Emergency Setups – Watch a team deploy antennas, power sources, and radios in real-world conditions.
  • Get On The Air – New to the hobby? Newcomers and Technician licensees are welcome to make contacts on the HF bands under the supervision of a licensed control operator, all under the club call sign N4UH.

New Hams Welcome

You don’t need a license – or any experience – to come out and enjoy Field Day. It’s one of the best chances all year to see ham radio in action, ask questions, and even get on the air yourself with a mentor by your side. If you’ve been thinking about getting licensed, this is the place to start (and you can take your exam right here Saturday morning).

The Spirit of Amateur Radio

Field Day is about more than equipment and antennas – it’s about connecting people. Operators of all ages work side by side, sharing knowledge and building friendships across the bands. Come for the radios, stay for the community.

Get Involved

Want to operate, help set up, or just stop by to learn more? Everyone is welcome.

Want to learn more about ARRL Field Day itself? Check out the official ARRL Field Day 2026 poster.

We hope to see you there!