FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2026
Announced by: Brian Markland — HV26 General Chairman
Written by: Michael Kalter, W8CI — Spokesperson, Hamvention 2025
37,924 Attendees Celebrate the World’s Premier Amateur Radio Event in Xenia, Ohio
XENIA, Ohio — Hamvention® 2026 General Chairman Brian Markland today announced that the curtain has come down on another extraordinary Hamvention®, and the numbers tell a story of remarkable enthusiasm: 37,924 attendees gathered at the Greene County Fairgrounds & Expo Center, reaffirming Hamvention’s standing as the world’s largest and most celebrated amateur radio gathering.
“On behalf of the entire Hamvention team, I am thrilled to share that Hamvention 2026 was an outstanding success. Seeing nearly 38,000 fellow amateur radio enthusiasts come together in Xenia is something that never gets old. This event belongs to every volunteer, every exhibitor, and every guest who made the journey — and I could not be more proud of what we accomplished together.”
— Brian Markland, General Chairman, Hamvention 2026
>From the first morning gates opened to the final farewell on Sunday, Hamvention 2026 buzzed with the unmistakable energy of a community united by a shared passion for radio, technology, and the enduring spirit of human connection across the airwaves.
Hamvention simply would not exist without the selfless dedication of its volunteers. This year, more than 600 volunteers gave their time, energy, and expertise to ensure that every attendee experienced the very best this event has to offer. From parking and registration to technical support and security, their commitment was visible in every corner of the fairgrounds. To each and every one of you — thank you. Hamvention is yours as much as it is anyone’s.
The exhibit halls came alive with the latest in amateur radio technology, equipment, and innovation. Our inside exhibitors brought the cutting edge of the hobby directly to attendees — from next-generation transceivers and antenna systems to software-defined radio platforms and beyond. We are deeply grateful to each exhibitor who chose Hamvention as the stage for their products and ideas. Your participation is what makes Hamvention the must-attend destination for every serious ham radio operator.
Stretching across acres of the fairgrounds, the legendary Hamvention Flea Market remains one of the most beloved traditions in all of amateur radio. Thousands of items found new homes this weekend, connecting buyers and sellers in a marketplace unlike anything else in the hobby. To our flea market exhibitors — your spirit of sharing, trading, and treasure-hunting is at the very heart of what makes Hamvention special. Thank you for being part of the tradition.
Hamvention exists for you. Whether you traveled from just down the road or from across the globe, you are the reason we do this. We hope the 2026 event was everything you hoped for — full of discovery, camaraderie, great finds, and memories that will last until we meet again. Hamvention is, above all else, a grand gathering, and every attendee makes it grander.
With 37,924 attendees, more than 600 dedicated volunteers, a full complement of inside exhibitors, and a flea market teeming with activity, Hamvention 2026 stands as a powerful testament to the vitality of the amateur radio community. We look forward to seeing everyone again and welcoming new faces to our grand gathering.
73 and see you next year!
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