PAARC in the Park 2026
“The POTA Challenge: Beyond the Park”
Every Contact Creates a Connection
Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Evansburg State Park, 851 Mayhall Rd., Collegeville, PA 19426
– Pavillon A –
PAARC will be hosting its annual PAARC in the Park event with a new focus for 2026. This year’s program is built around mentoring, training, and hands-on experience to help new and prospective operators get involved in Parks on the Air (POTA).
This is not just a casual operating event. It is a structured field experience designed to guide participants through every step of a POTA activation.
Event Overview
Participants will be paired with experienced POTA operators, known as Elmers, who will provide direct, one-on-one guidance throughout the day. Each group will work together to set up a portable station, learn proper operating techniques, and complete real contacts on the air.
Program Highlights
- Guided station setup and safety briefing
- Hands-on instruction in antennas, power, and portable operations
- First-contact coaching and logging instruction
- Live on-air operating with experienced mentors
- Short learning sessions during the lunch break covering practical field topics
- Second operating period focused on independent operation with mentor support
Who Should Attend
- New or recently licensed amateur radio operators
- Operators interested in trying Parks on the Air for the first time
- Anyone looking to improve portable operating skills
- Experienced operators willing to mentor and support new participants