When is the event?
Saturday, October 2nd, 2027. The event begins promptly at 9:00am. Competitors should arrive by 8:30am to check in and get situated before the opening.
Where is it?
Kempton Fairgrounds — 83 Community Center Drive, Kempton, PA. About an hour north of Philadelphia International Airport and 30 minutes west of Lehigh Valley Airport.
Do I need years of experience to compete?
No advanced certifications are required. Challenges are designed around real-world fabrication skills — cutting, drilling, welding, grinding. If you work in the trades, you already have the skills. The pressure of the clock and the crowd is what makes it hard.
How are challenges scored?
Every challenge is scored on speed and accuracy. You can be fast but sloppy — you'll lose points. You can be accurate but slow — you'll lose points. The winner finds the balance. Most challenges are designed to be completed in about ten minutes or less.
Can I bring my own equipment?
Welding helmets, jackets, and PPE will be provided. To keep the playing field level, no personal tools or equipment of any kind may be brought into the competition area.
Is there an age limit?
Yes. You must be 18 or older to compete. You must be 14 or older to enter the PPE area where the competition and art take place. All ages are welcome in the general festival areas.
Do spectators need PPE?
Designated competition viewing areas and some games will require closed-toe shoes and proper PPE. All other vendor, food, and festival areas do not. We provide all necessary PPE — you don't need to bring your own.
Is it rain or shine?
Yes. The event will not be canceled for weather. All competitions are held in a covered, dry environment for safety.
Can I be placed in the same group as someone I invited?
Yes. Email melissa@skilledtradesaoa.org with both competitor names and your ticket purchase dates before August 2027 and we'll do our best to place you in the same rotation.
Where can I stay if I'm traveling?
We're finalizing a local hotel block — check the Travel Info page for updates. In the meantime, the closest airports are Lehigh Valley International (ABE, ~35 min) and Philadelphia International (PHL, ~90 min). Join the WhatsApp group to coordinate travel with other attendees.
How do I enter my welding rig in the truck show?
Entry is free! You must have a festival ticket. Pre-registration gets you special swag, a reserved spot, and skip-the-line access. See the Rig Show page for details.
How do I apply for the Metal Art Competition?
Submit your previous work and experience to Kevin@FabricatorOlympics.com. Only 8 artists will be selected.