On Saturday, June 27, amateur radio operators from across the San Gabriel Valley will gather at ArtCenter College of Design’s Hillside Campus for ARRL Field Day, an annual event showcasing amateur radio’s role in emergency communications. The public is invited to attend this free event, learn about radio operations, and even try operating a station themselves.
Field Day, a tradition since 1933, is organized by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), the national association for amateur radio enthusiasts. This year, local operators will run six stations for 24 hours (starting at 11:00 a.m. on June 27) using emergency power sources like generators and solar batteries. These stations will demonstrate various communication methods, including voice, Morse code, and digital modes, simulating real-world disaster scenarios where traditional infrastructure may fail.
The event also includes a friendly competition, with clubs nationwide vying to make the most contacts in 24 hours. Participating local clubs include: • Pasadena Radio Club (w6ka.net) • South Pasadena Amateur Radio Club (southpasradio.org) • JPL Amateur Radio Club (jplarc.org) • Caltech Amateur Radio Club (its.caltech.edu/~w6ue)
Amateur radio has proven critical during disasters – such as wildfires, earthquakes, and power outages – when cell networks and internet access are unavailable. Southern California’s radio operators train year-round to provide backup communication when emergencies strike.
While a license is required to operate a ham radio, the clubs will host a “Get on the Air” (GOTA) station from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, offering visitors a chance to transmit under the guidance of licensed operators.
Event Details
• What: ARRL Field Day
• When: Saturday, June 27, 11:00 a.m. – Sunday, June 28, 11:00 a.m.
• Where: ArtCenter College of Design, Hillside Campus, South Parking Lot, Enter via 1700 Lida St., Pasadena, CA 91103
• Public “Get on the Air” Station: Saturday, June 27, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
