Back on January 25th, I had the pleasure of joining my local radio club for Winter Field Day. As someone pretty new to the world of radio contesting, I decided it would be best to attend as an observer this time around—and I’m so glad I did. It turned out to be an incredible day of learning, connection, and shared excitement for amateur radio.
Field Day is one of those special times where radio operators come together not just to practice, but to welcome others into the fold. It’s a great opportunity for the community to see firsthand what amateur radio is all about. Whether folks are brand new or seasoned operators, there’s always something to learn and enjoy.
Our club set up operations on the HF bands using voice and PSK31 (a digital mode), and I got to watch it all in action. I learned about different kinds of radios and antenna setups, and it was fascinating to see how each operator had their own style and strategies. Being there, surrounded by people who love radio as much as I do, made me feel like I’d found my people.
For those unfamiliar, contesting is a fun and friendly way for hams to sharpen their skills. Operators can check out contest rules and schedules on sites like the ARRL’s contest list or directly at the Winter Field Day website: https://winterfieldday.org. Each contest has its own set of rules and goals, and there are usually awards or points involved. Some popular options include Summits On the Air (SOTA), Parks On the Air (POTA), and of course, Winter and Summer Field Days.
Even though I didn’t get on the air this time, I came away with so much knowledge and excitement for the next event. Whether you’re a total beginner or just curious, I highly recommend checking out your local club’s activities—you never know what you’ll learn or who you’ll meet!
KF8CRS 
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