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Resources

Resources

Everything activators, hunters, clubs, and fair organizers need to take part in FOTA.

Getting Started

New to FOTA? Here's where to begin.

Fair on the Air

The core of the program — jump straight to any section.

Amateur Radio Organizations and Programs

FOTA exists alongside a wide amateur radio community. These are organizations and programs many activators already use — listed here as useful community resources, not as official partners of FOTA.

Portable Operating

Most fair activations are portable operations. This section will grow over time — for now, here's what to start thinking about.

Portable Antennas

Wire antennas (end-fed halfwaves, dipoles), portable verticals, and mag-mount mobile antennas are all common choices for fair activations, largely driven by what the fairgrounds will allow you to mount and where. Ask fair organizers before running a wire antenna near foot traffic or vendor areas.

Battery Power

Bring enough battery capacity for the length of your planned activation, plus a margin for a longer-than-expected day — fair activations often run longer than a quick summit or park activation.

Solar Power

A portable solar panel can extend an all-day fair activation without swapping batteries — worth considering for a fixed fairgrounds spot where you'll be set up for hours.

Logging Software

Any logging software or paper log you're already comfortable with works — FOTA's own activation record is a summary of your log, not a replacement for it.

Digital Modes

FT8, FT4, and other digital modes can work well from a fairgrounds where band noise from vendor electronics or lighting is a factor — worth having as a backup to voice.

Propagation

Check band conditions before you commit to a primary band for the day, and have a backup band in mind if propagation shifts mid-activation.

Portable Shelters

A canopy or tent keeps both operator and equipment out of sun and rain for a multi-hour fair activation — check with fair organizers about where a shelter/tent setup is allowed.

Weather Awareness

Fairs run rain or shine. Know your plan for sudden weather (especially lightning, given wire antennas and masts) before you are mid-activation.

Operating Etiquette

Standard amateur radio courtesy applies: listen before you call, keep pileups moving, and give priority to weak or mobile stations trying to make a quick contact. If fairgoers are watching, a brief explanation of what you're doing goes a long way for the hobby's public image.

Activation Planning

Coordinate with fair organizers ahead of time about setup location, vehicle access, and generator noise. Log your planned activation on FOTA in advance so hunters know when and where to listen for you.

Clubs and Fair Organizers

A fair activation is a natural fit for a club, not just a solo operator. FOTA can support a club's outreach at a fair through:

  • Public demonstrations of amateur radio to fairgoers.
  • Special event stations tied to the fair itself.
  • Youth outreach — letting kids make their first contact.
  • Club recruitment from an engaged, curious crowd.
  • Emergency communications awareness (Skywarn and public service).
  • General community engagement for the club.
  • Ongoing partnerships between the club and the fair board.

If your club wants to activate a fair, get it on FOTA and schedule your time on the air:

JCARA Origins

Fair on the Air was founded by members of the Jennings County Amateur Radio Association in Indiana.

Jennings County Amateur Radio Association logo