If you’ve ever wanted to see the full spectrum of amateur radio—from vintage military gear to space-age satellite rigs—all in one place, HamCation 2026 is your chance. Set to take place February 13–15 at the Central Florida Fairgrounds, this legendary hamfest is more than just a trade show. It’s a yearly pilgrimage for thousands of operators, tinkerers, collectors, preppers, and lifelong radio junkies.

A Living Timeline of Radio
Walking through HamCation is like flipping through the pages of a living radio history book. Expect to see everything from decades-old “boat anchors” like Heathkits and Collins radios to SDRs and satellite-capable handhelds. It’s one of the few places where a World War II radio might sit a table away from a rig that can connect via Iridium satellites.

If you’ve got memories of scanning police calls, cordless phones, or those early analog cell signals back in the ‘80s and ‘90s—you’ll feel right at home. There’s a scanner nostalgia scene here, too, and folks love to talk about what those little gray boxes used to pick up before encryption took over.

What’s New for 2026
Each year brings something new, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most interactive HamCation events yet. Here’s what to watch for:

• The Information Station (AM610): New this year, tune in on your AM radio as you approach the venue. This low-power broadcast will guide you through traffic, parking, weather updates, and daily schedules.

• Expanded Forums & Workshops: Want to get more into D-STAR, satellite communications, or emergency preparedness? The forums will cover everything from basic licensing to advanced digital modes. This is where a lot of new hobbyists get inspired.

• ARRL North Florida Section Convention: Running alongside HamCation this year, ARRL will be hosting its regional gathering, bringing together some of the biggest names and freshest ideas in the hobby.

• Vendor Hall & Tailgating: Whether you’re buying your first handheld, hunting for a rare tube rig, or just swapping stories at the tailgate tables, there’s no shortage of gear to check out. Icom, Yaesu, Kenwood, and smaller specialty brands will all be on site.

• Testing & Licensing: Ready to get your ticket or upgrade? HamCation’s testing sessions are the perfect place to do it. Who knows—maybe 2026 is the year you go Extra.

The Vibe
If you’ve never been, HamCation is a mix of high-energy swap meet, hands-on tech lab, and front porch storytelling. Some people come for the deals. Some come for the people. Others come just to get inspired again. And for many, it’s a tradition that goes back decades.

Why It Still Matters
In an era of smartphones and always-on internet, ham radio might seem like a relic. But step into HamCation and you’ll see the opposite. You’ll see operators using radios to bounce signals off the moon, talk to astronauts, or coordinate disaster relief when cell towers go down. It’s not just a hobby—it’s a skillset, a community, and for many, a backup plan.

Need-to-Know Info
Where: Central Florida Fairgrounds and Expo Park
When:

• Friday, February 13 – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• Saturday, February 14 – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• Sunday, February 15 – 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Talk-In Frequencies:

• K1AA 146.760 (-600/PL 103.5)

• Backup: 443.050 (+5.00/PL 103.5)

• DSTAR: K1XC 146.820 (-600)

Tickets:

• Available online, by mail, or at the gate

• Free parking

• Credit cards and cash accepted

More Than a Hamfest
HamCation has been going strong since 1946—starting with a backyard pig roast and now drawing nearly 25,000 people from all over the world. If you’ve never been, make 2026 your first. If you’re a regular, you already know—it’s one of the best weekends in amateur radio.

See You in Orlando
Whether you’re into storm spotting, satellite work, emergency prep, or just like spinning the dial and hearing a distant signal crackle in—HamCation is the place to be this February. Make plans, grab your radios, and let’s keep the tradition alive.