As the digital world continues to spin, there's a unique charm in connecting with others through the airwaves, a hobby that’s been around for decades. For those who find joy in amateur radio, particularly in the VHF spectrum, keeping track of the various contests can feel like a full-time job. Thankfully, the 2026 VHF Contest Calendar is here to help organize your year, ensuring you don't miss a single transmission.
This isn't just a simple list; it's a gateway to a year packed with opportunities to test your skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The calendar is thoughtfully provided in an iCalendar format, making it a breeze to import directly into your favorite digital organizers like Outlook or Google Calendar. Imagine having all the key dates, times, and contest details neatly laid out, ready for you to plan your participation.
Looking at the early months of 2026, January kicks off with a flurry of activity. We see the 144MHz FMAC and UKAC contests early in the month, followed by the FT8 AC contests which offer longer operating windows. Then, the focus shifts to 50MHz and 432MHz UKAC, and even the higher frequencies like 1.3GHz and SHF UKAC later in the month. It’s a testament to the diverse nature of VHF contesting, catering to different equipment and operating styles.
February continues this energetic pace with more 144MHz and 432MHz contests, including the 432MHz AFS, which seems to be a significant event with its Super League designation. The calendar also highlights the 70MHz UKAC and the return of the 1.3GHz and SHF UKAC contests, showing a consistent engagement across various bands throughout the month.
As we move into March, the calendar reveals a substantial event: the March 144/432MHz VHF Championship, spanning two days and offering multiple categories like HIGH/LOW/QRP. This is followed by a series of UKAC and FMAC contests, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to these popular frequencies. April brings a mix of FT8 AC, FMAC, and UKAC contests, with a notable 432MHz Trophy Contest in early May, part of the VHF Championship series.
May is particularly exciting, featuring the May 432MHz-245GHz Contest, which promises a wide range of frequencies to explore. We also see the 70MHz Contest CW, the 1st 144MHz Backpackers event, and the 10GHz Trophy Contest, all contributing to a vibrant month of radio activity. The calendar continues to fill out with regular UKAC and FMAC events, ensuring that even as the year progresses, there are always opportunities to get on the air.
What's fascinating is the sheer variety of contests and the specific rules or notes associated with each. Whether it's power limitations (like 10W or 50W), specific sections (AO, AR, AL), or special rules (SCC Allowed, UKACMGM), each entry provides just enough detail to pique your interest and guide your preparation. It’s this level of detail that transforms a simple date list into a valuable resource for any serious VHF contester.
So, whether you're a seasoned radio amateur looking to maintain your competitive edge or someone curious about dipping their toes into the world of VHF contesting, the 2026 calendar is your essential companion. It’s more than just dates and times; it’s an invitation to connect, compete, and celebrate the enduring spirit of amateur radio.
