Melbourne Hamfest 2024


PCARS
59th Annual Melbourne Hamfest


59TH ANNUAL MELBOURNE HAMFEST

New Date November 1st & 2nd, 2024

ATTENTION…ATTENTION – Hamfest Update concerning Hurricane Milton

Due to the potential approach of Hurricane Milton to our area, the Hamfest date is being moved to November 1st & 2nd, 2024. Same hours apply. All tables/tailgate spots/tickets, etc., already purchased WILL BE HONORED in full.

– From the Melbourne Hamfest Committee

November 1st, 2024

November 2nd, 2024

Check Back Often for updates for the 2024 Melbourne Hamfest

********IMPORTANT NOTICE******

In complying with the City of Melbourne & the Melbourne Auditorium, ONLY Service Animals, with proper labeling as such, will be allowed into the Hamfest. PLEASE leave your pet at home if they are not a Service Animal. PCARS thanks you in advance for your cooperation !!

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Melbourne Auditorium
625 E Hibiscus Blvd
Melbourne, FL 32901

Location Map


Click on each section below to expand.

Admission & Hours
  • This is a Friday & Saturday event.
  • Open to general attendees Friday 13:00 to 19:00, and Saturday 09:00 to 15:00 local.
  • Vendors and tailgaters can setup starting 2 hours before general opening.
  • Adult admission is $10, and covers both days. No charge for children 12 and under.
Over 150 Indoor Vendor Tables

Inside vendor tables are available for $40 each and are discounted for more than four tables. Check the auditorium layout for table locations. Complete the vendor reservation form. If you request the same location as last year, we will try to accommodate. Otherwise, choose a table. Admission tickets are required with a table. Products offered must be radio or electronics related.

Large Outdoor Tailgate Area

Tailgate area parking spots are $20 each. This year you can reserve a particular parking spot from the tailgate parking area layout, otherwise, you will be assigned a parking place at arrival. Complete the tailgate reservation form. Note that admission tickets are also required.

 Any tailgaters arriving without a confirmed tailgate space assignment should check in at the Tailgate Area (starting at 7 AM) before setting up.

Commercial Vendors

  • Paradan Radio
  • Orlando HamCation
  • BCI Communications
  • FPTN
  • Ham Radio Supply
  • Pro Electronics Repair of Brandenton, Inc.
  • PicoBalloon & CubeSat Exhibit
  • More vendors coming – check back for details!!
PCARS Consignment Table

The world famous PCARS Consignment Table has super bargains on radios, accessories, and more, If you have a few items to sell, you may place them on our table. We will sell them for your stated price range and keep a small donation. Please fill out the consignment form in advance, and bring it with your items. You may also donate items to our club and get a receipt for tax purposes.

Forums and Presentations

NOTE: Forums will be on SATURDAY ONLY

This year’s forums include:

10:00 AM-11AM – ARES Forum

11AM-12 Noon – Amateur Radio in Space – Pico Balloon Launches

12 Noon- 1PM – Florida Contest Group (FCG) meeting & forum

1PM-2PM – Hurricane Season Update – provided by the local Melbourne National Weather Service office.

Amateur License Exam

The PCARS ARRL VE Team will be administering amateur exams on Saturday, beginning at 10AM. This is your chance to either get your license or upgrade during the Hamfest.  Advanced registration is preferred, but walk ins will be accepted.  Cost of taking an exam is $15.00, CASH ONLY PLEASE.  Please arrive a few minutes prior to testing. For registration info, please go to www.w4gal.net/ARRL/. Exams will be held in the room to the left of the stage.

Grand and Hourly Prize Drawings
  • Grand prize drawing at 14:00 on Saturday. You need not be present to win.
  • For hourly prize drawings you must be present to claim your prize.

Grand Prize List

1st Prize – Yaesu FT-710AESS HF Transceiver

2nd Prize – Bird Wattmeter with with gift certificate for 1 slug

3rd Prize – Yaesu FTM-500DR 50W C4FM/VHF/UHF Dual Band FM Digital Mobile Transceiver

Hourly Prizes Include

  • Check Back for hourly Prize information
Nearby Hotels and Camping

2021 Melbourne Hamfest panorama from the stage
  • Plenty of FREE Parking
  • Snack Bar Food and Drinks (debit, credit, or small bills please)
  • DXCC QSL Card Checking on Site
  • Special Event HF Station W4MLB/59 on Site
  • New State-of-the-Art Surveillance System in Auditorium
  • ATM available onsite at Hamfest

For more information, or to submit forms, email: Hamfest committee
Postal address: PCARS Hamfest, PO Box 1004, Melbourne, FL 32902-1004

Get the PDF flyer to print or share.


Location Map

The PCARS Melbourne Hamfest Committee reserves the right to determine the suitability of any material displayed or offered for sale.