If you’re in the Orlando area this week, don’t forget about the biannual hamfest and swap meet at the University of Central Florida. This event has been happening for as long as I can remember. The UCF Tailgate is a great opportunity to buy, sell, and trade electronics equipment of all types. Ham radios, old CB radios, computers, and other electronic items are available. Back when I was living in Florida and selling on eBay, I always attended this hamfest. I was never disappointed. Next to Orlando HamCation in February, it is the most well-attended amateur radio event in Central Florida.
The key to the UCF Tailgate is to GET THERE EARLY! People arrive well before sunrise. All the “good stuff” is gone by 9AM. By 10, it becomes a social event. By 11, it’s over until next time. People will leave early if the weather is bad and stay late if it is an exceptionally nice day. Admission is FREE. There is no cost to buy or sell items. You do NOT need to be a licensed amateur radio operator to attend or participate.
Date for the summer UCF Tailgate is Saturday, June 8, 2019. Talk-in on the UCF ham club’s repeater: 443.375 Mhz. PL tone is 103.5. Besides being free, this event is a lot of fun. I used to attend every January and every June. If you’re in the area, be sure to check out the UCF Tailgate & Hamfest!