The Mount Vernon Amateur Radio Club (MVARC) invites the public to join its annual participation in ARRL Field Day, the largest on-air amateur radio event in the U.S., from 2 p.m. Saturday, June 28 to 2p.m. Sunday, June 29 at the George Washington Rec Center (8426 Old Mount Vernon Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309).
Hosted nationwide by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), Field Day is both a competitive exercise and a public demonstration of emergency communication capabilities. Each June, more than 40,000 amateur radio operators—or “hams”—set up temporary stations in parks, schools, and public spaces to showcase ham radio’s ability to function without cellular networks or the internet.
“Field Day is a fantastic opportunity for our members, especially new hams, to sharpen their skills and gain hands-on experience,” says Corey Law, MVARC President. “Our mission is to build lasting technical skills within our club and provide valuable public service. This event brings that to life.”
“Setting up radios in the field teaches us how to communicate when traditional systems fail,” MVARC Treasurer Ed Cabic adds. “Plus, it’s just fun—there’s something uniquely satisfying about making contacts across the country with only a radio and a wire.”
The public is encouraged to visit the site between 2 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday to meet local operators, learn about amateur radio, and try the equipment firsthand. Club members will offer demonstrations, answer questions, and explain how ham radio plays a critical role in community emergency response.
Throughout the weekend, MVARC will post updates and photos on its Facebook page at facebook.com/MountVernonARC.
For over a century, amateur radio has empowered individuals to explore electronics and serve their communities by providing backup communication during emergencies. Today, more than 750,000 people in the U.S. hold active licenses. MVARC supports new operators with fellowship and mentorship in the Northern Virginia area.
Event At A Glance
What: ARRL Field Day, hosted by Mount Vernon Amateur Radio Club
Public Welcome: Saturday, June 24, 2 p.m. – Sunday, June 25, 2 p.m.
Where: Field next to George Washington Rec Center
8426 Old Mount Vernon Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309
Info: mvarc.org | facebook.com/MountVernonARC
About Mount Vernon Amateur Radio Club
The Mount Vernon Amateur Radio Club (MVARC) promotes amateur radio through education, hands-on training, and public service. Based in Northern Virginia, the club supports emergency preparedness efforts and fosters community engagement through technical outreach and volunteerism.
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