Field Day for Amateur Radio held in Watson
June 28
Are you fascinated by radio communication, emergency preparedness, electronics, or community service? Curious about how people communicate when the internet or cell service goes down? The National Trail Amateur Radio Club invites you to experience the excitement of ARRL Field Day, a national amateur radio event that brings together ham radio operators and the general public for a weekend of learning, live demonstrations, and hands-on radio operation.
– Location: Watson Civic Center, under the big water tower
– Date: Saturday, June 28
– Time: starts at Noon
Field Day is the largest annual on-the-air event in North America, where amateur radio operators set up temporary transmitting stations outdoors to simulate emergency conditions. It’s a fun and informative opportunity to see amateur radio in action and learn how it supports emergency response efforts during disasters.
What You Can Expect:
• Live amateur radio operations — watch as operators connect with others across the country and beyond!
• Try out a radio yourself — no license needed!
• Learn how ham radio supports emergency communications for FEMA, the Red Cross, and local first responders.
• Discover how to get involved, get licensed, and join a supportive and skilled community.
• Meet local radio operators and electronics enthusiasts eager to share their knowledge.
Whether you’re a tech lover, electronics nerd, student, Scout, prepper, or someone looking to serve your community during emergencies, Field Day is for you!
This event is free and open to everyone. Families are welcome!
Bring your curiosity—and your questions—and see why amateur radio remains one of the most reliable, resilient, and rewarding ways to communicate.
For more information, visit www.arrl.org/FieldDay
About the National Trail Amateur Radio Club:
The National Trail Amateur Radio Club (NTARC) is a local group of amateur radio enthusiasts in the Effingham area dedicated to promoting the art and science of radio communication, supporting emergency response agencies, and fostering education and community outreach in central Illinois.
You may also join us at our monthly meetings held at the Watson Civic Center every 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7PM.
Website: nationaltrailarc.org Email: info@nationaltrailarc.org