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 27 to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 28 at the field next to Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (2501 Parkers Ln, Alexandria, VA 22306).
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 isn't just a practice run; it’s a vital rehearsal for when modern communications fail," says Corey Law, MVARC President. "The devastating flooding and hurricanes we've recently witnessed in North Carolina and Texas underscore exactly why amateur radio remains a critical lifeline. From national disasters to the historic emergencies we've weathered right here in the Mount Vernon area, our mission is to ensure our members — especially our newest hams — are trained, equipped, and ready to provide essential public service when our community needs us most.”
The public is encouraged to visit the field next to Inova Mt. Vernon Hospital at the corner of Hinson Farm Rd and Parkers Ln. 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 27, 2 p.m. – Sunday, June 28, 2 p.m.
Where: Field next to Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
2501 Parkers Ln., Alexandria VA 22306
