What is a Field Day in Amateur Radio?

Field day is the most popular on the air events among radio amateurs globally. In the Unites States of America and Canada, ARRL Field Day is on the fourth weekend of June with participation from over 40,000 radio amateurs. In 2024, the ARRL Field Day is scheduled for June 22-23. There is also a Winter Field Day sponsored by the Winter Field Day Association, which is held on the last full weekend of January. This year it coincided with the National Field Day and Hilltopping Contest organized by the Amateur Radio Society of India, of which I am also a life member. Objective of the Field Day is to work as many stations as possible on amateur radio bands in less than optimal conditions. It enhances emergency preparedness of amateur radio operators and increases awareness of general public about the emergency communication capabilities of Amateur Radio as the temporary stations are set up in public places.