From May 15–17, 2026, the eyes of the entire amateur radio world will once again turn toward the city of Xenia, Ohio, where the next edition of the famous will take place. As the largest and most recognized event for radio amateurs worldwide, it attracts tens of thousands of attendees from many countries every year, transforming the area into the global capital of amateur radio communications for one unforgettable weekend.
This year’s theme — “Radio Adventure” — highlights the fact that amateur radio today is far more than traditional voice communication over the air. It is modern technology, digital experimentation, satellite communication, emergency communications, and portable field activity, all of which are experiencing a true renaissance.
The history of Hamvention dates back to 1952, when the very first gathering was held in Dayton. Since 2017, the event has been hosted at the Greene County Fair & Expo Center in Xenia, while still maintaining its historic name and prestige. The event continues to be organized by the , supported by a massive team of volunteers.
Each year, attendees can visit hundreds of booths featuring radio equipment manufacturers, thousands of flea market spaces, and dozens of lectures and presentations dedicated to nearly every aspect of the hobby. Hamvention is the place where visitors can see the latest SDR radios, antennas, digital systems, and technologies used in emergency communications.
The world of amateur radio is evolving rapidly. Digital modes such as FT8, modern SDR radios, and mesh networks operating independently of the internet are becoming increasingly popular. Many operators are also becoming involved in portable operating activities from parks and protected areas around the world.
Hamvention 2026 will be an excellent opportunity to see these technologies in action. The program includes satellite communication demonstrations, emergency communications presentations, and numerous technical forums focused on the latest trends in the hobby.
Organizers are also emphasizing the growing involvement of younger operators. One of the key events will be the ARRL Youth Rally — a program aimed at young people between the ages of 11 and 21. Participants will have the opportunity to try satellite communications, take part in fox hunting activities, and explore the practical side of amateur radio operations.
Another long-standing highlight is the RCA Youth Forum, where young amateur radio operators present their own projects, experiences, and achievements related to radio communications, electronics, and space technologies.
However, Hamvention is much more than just an exhibition and flea market. For many radio amateurs, it is above all a gathering of a worldwide community. Walking through the aisles, visitors can hear conversations in English, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Polish, and many other languages. It is a place for sharing experiences, reconnecting with old friends, and building new friendships.
Particularly impressive is the massive amateur radio flea market — one of the largest in the world. Across more than 2,500 vendor spaces, visitors can find everything from modern equipment to vintage tube radios, spare parts, and rare accessories difficult to find anywhere else.
For every amateur radio enthusiast, Hamvention remains a truly unique event — a place where tradition meets innovation, and where a shared passion for radio connects people from all over the world.