> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://hacktoberfest-handbook.mlh.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://hacktoberfest-handbook.mlh.com/about-hacktoberfest-2026.md).

# About Hacktoberfest 2026

If you're reading this, congratulations on taking the first step toward organizing a Hacktoberfest Event ("Fests"). This year, our goal is to bring people together and help them learn, experiment, and build with open-source and open-weight AI technology. This guide is intended for organizers who want to host an in-person Fest.

> **Apply to host a Fest:** [organize.mlh.com/host/hacktoberfest-2026](https://organize.mlh.com/host/hacktoberfest-2026)

{% hint style="info" %}
**Event requirements:** All Fests are one-day, in-person events lasting 3 to 12 hours. Fests are available in all countries except those subject to [U.S. embargo restrictions](https://ofac.treasury.gov/sanctions-programs-and-country-information).
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Required for every format: Attendee registration and check-in must use OrganizerHQ, our event management platform, and organizers must provide event photos after their Fest.**
{% endhint %}

### Two Fest Formats

Fests come in two formats and you get to choose:

### Hacktoberfest Hack Day

Hacktoberfest Hack Days are mini-hackathons based on Major League Hacking (MLH)'s [Hack Days program](https://mlh.gitbook.io/hack-days). These are hands-on events where participants create projects during the Fest using open-source AI tools or open-weight models for a chance to win prizes. Work on submitted projects may not begin before the Fest.

For our part, MLH is supporting these events with:

* Hacktoberfest swag
* [Reimbursements under the program policy](https://mlh.gitbook.io/hack-days/reimbursements)
* The option to run any one, several, or all of our [open-source prize challenges,](/fest-planning-guide/open-source-prize-categories.md) with a winner's DEV Badge for every member of each winning team and a participation badge for all attendees.
* A possible additional [Hack Days partner prize category](/fest-planning-guide/hack-days-partner-prize-categories.md) assigned to selected Hacktoberfest Hack Day events

Hacktoberfest Hack Day organizers can run any one, several, or all of the curated open-source prize challenges.

Some Hacktoberfest Hack Day events may also receive a Hack Days partner prize category assigned by the MLH Hacktoberfest team. See the [Hack Days partner prize category page](/fest-planning-guide/hack-days-partner-prize-categories.md) for the currently active categories. Winning projects must satisfy the assigned category's criteria and incorporate open-source or open-weight AI in some way in addition to any partner technologies used.

### Hacktoberfest Meet Up

Hacktoberfest Meet Ups are flexible in format, and we rely on you, the organizer, to shape them in the way that best serves your community. For example, you could invite a speaker to talk about open-source AI, or host a simple Meet Up where participants share ideas about their builds and their latest AI-assisted workflows in a more social setting.

All Hacktoberfest Meet Up events are subject to approval. They receive swag, such as stickers, postcards, and T-shirts, but do not receive prizes or reimbursements from the MLH Hacktoberfest team.

## How Hosting Works

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

## <sub>Apply to host a Fest</sub>

Fill in the details of your event and your contact information at [organize.mlh.com/host/hacktoberfest-2026](https://organize.mlh.com/host/hacktoberfest-2026). If you want to host a Hacktoberfest Meet Up, share your plans for the format of the event. All Fests are subject to approval to be listed officially on the Hacktoberfest website.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## <sub>Receive approval and your official event name</sub>

Approved events will use the following naming convention: `Event Name - Location [Event Type]` (i.e. Hack the 6ix - Toronto, Canada \[Hack Day]).
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## <sub>Secure an in-person venue</sub>

Your one-day event needs a safe, accessible space for 3 to 12 hours with the equipment your program requires. Examples include AV equipment, seating, power, and reliable Wi-Fi.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## <sub>Plan the experience</sub>

Hacktoberfest Hack Day organizers can follow our [Fest Planning Guide,](/fest-planning-guide.md) which closely outlines the requirements and best practices for a Hacktoberfest Hack Day. Hacktoberfest Meet Up organizers plan their own talks, workshops, discussions, or other programming.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## <sub>Receive and distribute swag</sub>

Both Fest formats receive swag like T-shirts, stickers, and postcards. Some Fests may also receive special swag drops. Hacktoberfest Hack Day organizers should keep records of their winning teams and event receipts and submit the winner information and receipt records to the MLH Hacktoberfest team after the event. Prize distribution and reimbursement will happen after the event.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## <sub>Run the event and follow the post-event instructions</sub>

Every Fest must use OrganizerHQ for attendee registration and check-in, and every organizer must provide event photos. Hacktoberfest Hack Day events must also use OrganizerHQ Challenges for project submissions and judging.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## <sub>For More Information</sub>

Start with the [Fest Formats ](/fest-formats.md)page to learn about the events. Then, use the [Fest Planning Guide,](/fest-planning-guide.md) which is written to walk organizers through the process of hosting.

For questions about applying or hosting, contact <hacktoberfest@mlh.io>.


---

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