The first annual Big Bear Mini-Hamcation was held April 26-28, 2024 at Big Bear Lake. Over 350 amateur radio operators filled the Holiday Inn Resort conference center over the weekend to participate in a full range of sessions exploring topics related to our hobby. Vendors from across the Southern California region displayed and discussed their products and attendees were treated to a live amateur television (ATV) demonstration and special event station.

The PAPA System is a founding sponsor of the Mini-Hamcation. PAPA provided financial support and prizes for the raffle. The funds raised from the raffle will go towards supporting next year’s Mini-Hamcation scheduled for April 25-27, 2025. Mark your calendar now so you won’t miss next years event.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of the PAPA members who attended the Mini-Hamcation, especially those who dedicated their time to set up the booth, answer questions, sell door prize tickets and promote the PAPA System to the Southern California amateur radio community. The contributions by KO6ACJ, KM6AVH, KE6GQO, KN6QFD and KN6RED were invaluable.

The Mini-Hamcation was organized by Dede Hermon, K6DDZ. Dede is an active ham and professional event organizer. She was able to make the event a reality in 85 days from conception to execution. The Mini-Hamcation promises more vendors, sessions and attendees for 2025. The PAPA System thanks Dede for her vision, hard work and dedication to bringing back an annual amateur radio convention to the Southern California region.

Some Images from the 2024 Mini-Hamcation in Big Bear

I look forward seeing PAPA members at the 2025 Big Bear Mini-Hamcation.