Mark your calendars for January 31st, 2026!
NFARL is excited to announce our participation in the GARS TechFest 2026, the premier FREE amateur radio event in Gwinnett County. This annual celebration brings together ham radio enthusiasts of all experience levels to learn, share, and explore the latest in amateur radio technology.
About GARS TechFest
GARS TechFest is an excellent opportunity for individuals to learn about the latest developments in amateur radio technology, share knowledge and experience, and network with other amateur radio operators. Attendees can expect to see demonstrations of various types of equipment and attend presentations and workshops on a variety of topics. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just getting started, this event is for you!
For complete event details, visit the TechFest website.
What's New for 2026
- People's Choice Best Chili Award
- Gwinnett's Best Radio Voice Contest
- FREE Baofeng HT Radio for any youth under 18 who takes and passes their Amateur Radio Licensing Exam (limit 10)
- GA AUXCOMM and Gwinnett Co ARES trailers on display
- GARS Club trailer on display
- Afternoon FoxHunt
NFARL's Role at TechFest 2026
NFARL has confirmed our participation with a corner space featuring 6-7 tables with electricity. We'll be bringing our enthusiasm and expertise to make this year's event even better than last year's success!
Our activities include:
- Club Welcome Table - Meet NFARL members and learn about our club
- Code Practice Oscillator (CPO) Kit Building - Our most popular hands-on activity! Last year we helped build over 50 CPO kits, and we're planning to have plenty available this year
- Antenna Modeling Forum Presentation - Educational session on antenna design and modeling
Not sure who had more fun last year - the kids building their kits or our club members helping them! Check out these photos from TechFest 2025 to see the excitement and engagement at our kit building stations.
We Need Your Help!
Volunteers needed to staff the kit building area!
We're looking for approximately 5 club members at a time to help participants build their Code Practice Oscillators. This is a rewarding opportunity to share your knowledge, work with young people interested in ham radio, and be part of an exciting community event.
Looking forward to smoking some solder!
Sign up for a volunteer time slot here
For questions about NFARL's participation, contact Lee Johnson (n4wye) at n4wye@nfarl.org.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, January 31st, 2026
Location: Gwinnett County Fairgrounds - Expo Center
Admission: FREE
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION:
Use Davis Rd Parking Lot and Entrance to Expo Center
Coordinates: 33°55'15.0″N 83°59'05.5″W
Use this Map for reference
See You There!
Whether you're volunteering with NFARL or just attending, we hope to see you at GARS TechFest 2026. It's going to be a fantastic day of amateur radio fun, learning, and community!
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