Isanti County Radio Club 2026 Field Day Information
Location:
Irving and John Anderson County Park
27201 Furman St NE, North Branch, MN 55056
Field Day is the largest annual amateur radio event in North America, held every fourth full weekend of June—this year, it’s June 27–28, 2026. It’s part emergency preparedness drill, part public outreach, and part friendly competition.
During Field Day, ham radio operators set up temporary stations—often in parks, fields, or even backyards—and operate off-grid using generators, solar panels, or batteries. The goal? To make as many contacts as possible across various bands and modes, simulating how amateur radio can function when traditional infrastructure fails.
But it’s not just about emergency comms. It’s also a celebration of radio science and community. Clubs invite the public, offer license testing, run demonstrations, and sometimes even throw in a BBQ or two. It’s a great opportunity to showcase ham radio’s relevance, especially in times of crisis, and to bring new folks into the fold.
There has been talk of members doing equipment demos and allowing nonlicensed persons an opportunity to try their hand at operating the radios and making contacts under the supervision of the licensed hams.
Field Day Location Map 1
Field Day Map 2
2025 Field Day Special Use Permit
Irving-John-Anderson-County-Park
Directions:
What3Words Geo Locator – click and select map style, Google works best.
ARRL Contest Period:
Starts 1800 UTC Saturday, locally that’s 1 pm Sat.
Ends 2059 UTC Sun. Locally, that’s 3:59 pm Sunday
General Info:
Important for campers: Our park special use permit allows RVs in the parking lot from Friday, 4 pm, June 26th, to Sunday, 5 pm, June 28th. Please review the Special Use Permit for park rules on parking and overnight camping. (No tent camping allowed).
Participation in the ARRL Contest is not required. If you want to – cool, if not – most just hang out, BBQ, and talk radio, make some contacts, and eat whatever food was brought.
Note that alcohol is prohibited in the park.
If you would like help with a radio or antenna setup, bring it as experienced people will be available to assist. Asking questions is how all of us progress.
Note that ATT cellular is weak at best in the park. Can’t speak for other carriers.