Here is a Press Release concerning the Colorado QSO Party.
Like it says below, this is our chance to Activate The State.
SOTA and POTA enthusiasts, there is a page specifically for you.
- Bob K0NR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Alan Higbie – K0AV – info@coloradoqsoparty.org
Colorado Hams Invited to “Activate the State” During the 2026 Colorado QSO Party — September 12
Statewide on-air event offers plaques, certificates, and a friendly, mentor-rich environment for hams of all experience levels
Colorado Springs, CO — Radio amateurs across Colorado are gearing up for the 2026 Colorado QSO Party (COQP), a fun, statewide on-air event hosted by the Grand Mesa Contesters of Colorado (GMCC). All Colorado hams — from first-time operators to seasoned contesters — are encouraged to get on the air and help “activate” Colorado’s 64 counties.
When
The Colorado QSO Party runs:
- Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM to 9:59 PM MDT on Saturday, September 12 — a full day of operating fun! (That’s 14:00 UTC Saturday through 03:59 UTC Sunday.)
Why Participate
Whether you work one station or chase all 64 counties, the goal is simply to get on the air and have fun. The COQP is an excellent training ground for sharpening operating skills, testing your station, and — for newer hams — getting that all-important first contact under your belt. Rules allow unlimited operators at a single station, making COQP a perfect “Elmering” opportunity for clubs to mentor new operators in a low-pressure environment.
POTA and SOTA activators can double-dip: schedule your activation during the COQP and enjoy increased band activity while logging contacts for both events.
Help Activate All Colorado’s Counties
A key part of the COQP’s success is having stations on the air from as many of Colorado’s 64 counties as possible — especially the rare ones! Hams planning to activate a county (mobile, portable, or POTA/SOTA) are encouraged to sign up in advance so other operators know where to listen and chase. Don’t wait. If your plans change, you may easily modify the listing on the on the website.
👉 Sign up to activate a county and view the full list of planned activations here: https://ColoradoQSOParty.org/getting-started/
Modes and Categories
Operators may participate using CW and Phone (SSB, AM, FM) on 80, 40, 20, 15, 10, 6, and 2 meters. (Digital modes not permitted.)
Entry categories include:
- In-State Fixed Stations: CW, Phone, or Mixed (QRP, Low Power, or High Power)
- In-State Mobile Stations: CW, Phone, or Mixed (Low Power)
- In-State Portable Stations: CW, Phone, or Mixed (QRP or Low Power)
- Out-of-State Stations: QRP, Low Power, or High Power (fixed, mobile, or portable)
Mobile and Portable operations activating Colorado counties can also earn a 500-point bonus per county activated (minimum 15 QSOs required).
Awards
The top finisher in each category will be recognized with a plaque. There are special achievement plaques to be awarded as well. Full award details are posted on the official rules page. All participants will receive recognition. https://coloradoqsoparty.org/getting-started/rules/
Get Involved
Full rules, county abbreviations, suggested frequencies, logging software recommendations, and log submission instructions are available at: https://ColoradoQSOParty.org
Logs (Cabrillo format) are due within 7 days of the event — by September 19, 2026, at 24:00 UTC.
2026 marks America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary — a great year to get on the air and be part of Colorado amateur radio history!
The Colorado QSO Party is hosted by the Grand Mesa Contesters of Colorado (GMCC). For more information, visit coloradoqsoparty.org or email info@coloradoqsoparty.org