Lake County’s amateur radio community will take center stage June 28–29 as the Lake Amateur Radio Association hosts its annual Field Day at the Lake Technical College Institute of Public Safety’s weapons and driving range in Tavares.

The event runs from 2 p.m. Saturday to 2 p.m. Sunday and is part of a nationwide amateur radio contest that draws more than 40,000 licensed “hams” across North America. The public is invited to attend the 24-hour open house event, which highlights the technology, emergency preparedness, and public service aspects of amateur radio.

Field Day will feature mobile command and communications vehicles from Lake County and LARA, offering a hands-on look at how amateur radio operators transmit voice, data, and even images—often without relying on commercial systems.

Held annually since 1933, Field Day is the most popular event in ham radio. Participants aim to make contact with as many other amateur radio stations as possible across the country. But beyond the competitive element, the event serves as a training ground for emergency communications and a chance to educate the public on the importance of radio-based services during natural disasters or system outages.

“Field Day combines public service, emergency preparedness, community outreach, and technical skill in a single event,” according to the Lake Amateur Radio Association.

LARA, an award-winning club founded in 1952, serves all of Lake County and its 14 municipalities. The club boasts over 150 active members and consistently earns top honors statewide and nationally for its communication capabilities and service. The group’s infrastructure enables global communication and has played a role in various emergency situations, echoing the amateur radio motto: “When all else fails, ham radio works.”

The event will be held at 13000 Frankies Road, Tavares, FL 32778. For more information, visit www.k4fc.org.