What to Expect at the 2026 Cincinnati Hamfest

The Cincinnati Hamfest has become much more than a flea market—it's a gathering built around learning, friendships, and the future of amateur radio. Ron Brooks, AC8MA joins Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio to preview the 2026 Cincinnati Hamfest, which also serves as this year's ARRL Great Lakes Division Convention. From major exhibitors and technical forums to VE testing, RV camping, and club recognition, Ron explains why this regional event continues to attract operators from across the Midwest and beyond. This year's program includes appearances from Ten-Tec and AlphaRF, demonstrations of the Phoenix SDR, presentations on DXing, fox hunting, and an ARRL update, plus on-site support from QRZ. Ron also shares how the Milford Amateur Radio Club uses the hamfest to strengthen the amateur radio community—not simply as a fundraiser, but as a place where operators reconnect, meet new friends, and encourage newcomers to earn their first license. One particularly interesting development is the club's ARDC-supported repeater project, which will create what Ron expects to be the highest-profile Wires-X system in southwest Ohio. It's another example of how today's hamfests continue to support tomorrow's infrastructure while preserving the traditions that make amateur radio unique. Whether you're planning to attend, looking for technical presentations, or simply enjoy seeing how successful regional hamfests are evolving, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the Midwest's signature amateur radio gatherings. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Special thanks to DX Engineering for supporting Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio and helping operators everywhere—from DXers and contesters to builders, POTA activators, and everyday hams—get more from the hobby.