State QSO Parties
Amateur radio QSO parties are friendly, on-the-air operating events that encourage contacts within a specific state, province, or region. Part contest and part social activity, they invite operators of all experience levels to get on the air and exchange simple information such as call signs and locations. QSO parties emphasize fun, participation, and community involvement, making them especially popular with mobile, portable, and casual operators. They provide an excellent opportunity to practice operating skills, activate rare locations, and promote amateur radio activity while fostering camaraderie across the airwaves. It is a great way to work towards your Worked All States (WAS) award, your Worked All Radio Amateurs of Canada award, and start your Worked All US Counties award.
America 250 Worked All States Award
The America 250 Worked All States (WAS) Award is a special, year‑long amateur radio operating event created by the ARRL to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, as part of the broader America 250 national celebration in 2026. It challenges ham radio operators to confirm two‑way contacts with all 50 U.S. states during the 2026 calendar year, using Logbook of The World for verification.
State QSO Party Challenge
The State QSO Party Challenge is a year-long amateur radio operating competition that encourages hams to participate in as many state and provincial QSO parties as possible. It promotes activity, improves operating skills, and adds structure and excitement to chasing states, counties, and multipliers. The Challenge Involves making multiple contacts during most of the year's QSO parties for each US state and Canadian provinces. You can compete as an individual or as a club.
Links