Hamfest

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2003 Dayton Hamvention

A Hamfest is an occasion where Amateur radio enthusiasts come together to sell radio and other electronic equipment. A Hamfest is very similar to a flea market, but may also have aspects of a trade show. Some Hamfests offer seminars on various aspects of Amateur and Amateur Radio license examination sessions. Hamfests are usually annual or semiannual events lasting one to three days, generally over a weekend. Some, in more populous areas, may occur more often, perhaps even monthly.

Clubs, Amateur Radio resellers, manufacturers or even individuals rent space from the sponsoring organization to show and sell their wares. The equipment at a hamfest can vary significantly from the newest high-tech gear to used, refurbished or even antique equipment, and haggling or bargaining is the most common means of sale. Equipment which originally sold for thousands of dollars to commercial users (such as public safety agencies) can be found at a fraction of the price, just a few years later. Likewise, accessories which are no longer available from the manufacturers may be found, and many sales of complete systems are made buyers who only need one or two components. Junk boxes abound, filled with often-unidentifiable parts, often left over from projects or equipment long-since gone.

Larger old items are often referred to as boat anchors, with the suggestion that they are obsolete and of such low value that this is the only use left for them. Numerous jokes are based on this concept, and some sellers will tie ropes to handles, or post signs on large items seeking customers who own aircraft carriers.

Many Amateur Radio operators who attend Hamfests find the most enjoyable part is the opportunity to meet face-to-face many of the personalities they have come to know over the air. Larger hamfests might begin with pancake breakfasts, with proceeds going to the sponsoring organization or a worthy charity.

The Dayton Hamvention is generally considered to be the largest hamfest in North America. It is held each May at the Hara Arena in Trotwood, Ohio near Dayton, Ohio. The Hamvention offers forums, exhibit space and a flea market and usually has over 20,000 visitors. Many Amateur Radio enthusiasts go out of their way to attend the Hamvention, travelling from all over the United States, Canada, Mexico and various parts of the world and even as far as Australia.