News, tailgates, testing, demos, and plenty of rigs.
How the local papers covered Gadsden HAMFest 2026, Saturday, Sept. 19 at The Venue.
Photo: Bill Wilson / The Anniston Star
The Anniston Star
“The annual Gadsden Amateur Radio Club hamfest filled The Venue on Saturday as amateur radio operators, CB enthusiasts, electronics hobbyists and radio fans gathered to browse, buy, sell and swap equipment.”
Photo: Caylie Moore / Gadsden Messenger
Gadsden Messenger
“On Saturday, Gadsden Amateur Radio Club hosted its 17th annual Hamfest at The Venue at Coosa Landing from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.” Club president Dr. Delton Hartzog told the paper attendance rose from about 275 in 2025 to 319 this year.
Gadsden HAMFest 2026 grand raffle results.
Jon Alexander KZ4T
Icom 5200-A
Logan Moore KQ4VGM
$750 Gift Certificate
Darrel Hamilton AB4DH
$250 Gift Certificate
Mark your calendar for these premier amateur radio events across Alabama.
August 22-23, 2026 • Von Braun Center, Huntsville, AL
The "World's Friendliest Hamfest" returns with the ARRL National Convention for the first time since 2007. Over 100,000 sq ft of indoor space, commercial vendors, forums from aerospace experts, Youth Lounge, and a vibrant flea market.
March 6-7, 2026 • Birmingham, AL
ARRL Alabama Section Convention featuring equipment dealers, flea market, forums, and fellowship. Two-day event with Friday evening preview and Saturday main event.
Saturday, November 14, 2026 • Doors open 8:30 AM • Alcazar Shrine Temple, 555 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery
ARRL Alabama State Convention • License Exams • Talk-in: W4AP 146.84 MHz (-600, 123 Hz)
Admission $10 • Vendor tables $20 (include one admission) • Vendor setup Fri, Nov. 13, 12:00–6:00 PM and Sat 7:00–8:20 AM
Date TBD • Headland/Dothan Area
ARRL sanctioned • Talk-in: 145.430 MHz (186.2 Hz, negative offset)
Worth the drive from Gadsden — nearby events in Georgia and Tennessee.
Last Sat in February (est. Feb 22)
Dalton Fairgrounds, Dalton, GA
40+ years running • 3 indoor buildings + 3-acre boneyard • Admission: $5
June 13, 2026
Wallace Memorial Baptist Church, Knoxville, TN
ARRL TN State Convention • 700+ attendance • 30+ vendors, 80+ tailgaters
October 3-4, 2025
Colonnade Civic Center, Ringgold, GA
Two-day event • Commercial vendors + flea market
November 7-8, 2026
Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, Lawrenceville, GA
Sat 8 AM-4 PM, Sun 8 AM-2 PM
Date TBD 2026
Ward Ag Center, Lebanon, TN
20,000 sq ft exhibit hall • Booths $15 • Admission $5
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