QSO Party Events: US State & Regional Amateur Radio Contests

Find upcoming QSO Parties, rules, and sponsors for amateur radio operating events focused on specific geographic areas.

Austin
Reviewed by • Digital Modes & Software Editor March 2026

QSO Parties are popular amateur radio operating events focused on making contacts within specific geographic areas, typically US states. These events encourage both local and DX stations to contact operators in the designated region, promoting activity and skill development. Participants aim to make as many contacts as possible, often under specific rules regarding modes, bands, and power levels. Key events include the California QSO Party (sponsored by NCCC), the Colorado QSO Party (sponsored by Grand Mesa Contesters), and the Michigan QSO Party (sponsored by Mad River Radio Club). Each party offers a unique challenge and opportunity to earn awards.

These events are sponsored by various amateur radio clubs and organizations, such as the Northern California Contest Club for CQP, the Grand Mesa Contesters of Colorado for the Colorado QSO Party, and the Mad River Radio Club for the Michigan QSO Party. Other notable events include the Florida QSO Party by the Florida Contest Group, the Oklahoma QSO Party by the Oklahoma DX Association, and the Indiana QSO Party. Rules, scoring, and specific dates are published annually by the sponsoring organizations, with many events occurring on set weekends each year.

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