> 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/fest-planning-guide/fest-opening-guide.md).

# Fest Opening Guide

{% hint style="warning" %}
**The Fest slide deck is not ready yet.** The MLH Hacktoberfest team will post the deck and its format-specific instructions on this page when it is available.
{% endhint %}

## How to Use the Opening Slide Deck

Once the deck is posted, make a copy for your Fest. Edit only the host-controlled slides; the slide numbers may change, so use the slide titles and placeholders to identify what to update.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

## Make a Copy

Open the event-specific slide deck provided by the MLH Hacktoberfest team and go to **File → Make a copy**. Make your edits in the copy.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Update Your Event Information

Replace the placeholders with:

* The approved event name
* The venue, city, date, and schedule
* Your host and organization information
* The community or communication channel
* OrganizerHQ registration and check-in details
* Any preparation attendees should complete before arriving

Hacktoberfest Hack Day events should show project time, submissions, winner selection, and when project work may begin. Hacktoberfest Meetup events should show talks, demonstrations, discussions, social activities, workshops, or other sessions.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Update the Links

Update any QR codes and links so they point to your event-specific pages:

* Community or communication channel
* OrganizerHQ registration and check-in page
* OrganizerHQ Challenges submission page for every Hacktoberfest Hack Day event
* Speaker, workshop, or resource links
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Add the Prize Information

For a Hacktoberfest Hack Day event, include the [Best Open-Source AI Project challenge](/fest-planning-guide/open-source-prize-categories.md) and its DEV Badge prize. Mention MLH+DEV branded swag bags only if your event's onboarding materials confirm them. If the MLH Hacktoberfest team has also assigned a Hack Days partner prize category, include it exactly as provided.

Hacktoberfest Meetups do not use project submissions or prize challenges, so omit prize language.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Quick Checklist

* [ ] Updated the title with the approved event name, location, and date
* [ ] Added host and organization information
* [ ] Filled in the schedule with actual times
* [ ] Updated community, registration, check-in, and submission links
* [ ] Added the Best Open-Source AI Project challenge and its DEV Badge prize
* [ ] Added only the Hack Days partner prize category assigned by the MLH Hacktoberfest team
* [ ] Tested embedded videos and links


---

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