Hacktoberfest
Hacktoberfest is a month-long celebration of open source software run by DigitalOcean. During the month of October, we invite you to join open-source software enthusiasts, beginners, and the developer community by contributing to open-source projects.
About Hacktoberfest
Hacktoberfest is an annual open source event originally launched by DigitalOcean in 2014, historically centered on developers opening pull requests during October to earn a t-shirt. For 2026, stewardship has shifted to Major League Hacking (MLH) and DEV, and the format has changed from counting pull requests to a focus on open source AI learning activities such as writing a skills.md file, building an open-source agent, or fine-tuning an open-weight model.
The 2026 edition consists of both an online program and 300+ in-person local events called "Fests," held in cities worldwide during October. Fests are organized by volunteers such as meetup groups, university clubs, or coworkers, who apply to host and receive funding, swag, and programming support; MLH provides financial reimbursement for certain event-related expenses. Confirmed Fests are listed in a searchable gallery on the site and promoted through MLH and DEV's marketing channels.
The event is aimed at developers interested in open source and open source AI, ranging from newcomers to experienced contributors, as well as organizations that can host a local Fest or sponsor the program. Sponsorship is directed at marketing and developer relations teams looking to reach the Hacktoberfest community.
Key features
- Local and online one-day Fests focused on building with open source AI
- Learn open-weight models and open source agents
- Write a skills.md and build a custom open source agent
- Fine-tune an open-weight model
- Apply to host a Fest with funding, swag, and programming support for organizers
- Fest listings promoted in a searchable event gallery
Frequently asked questions
Is Hacktoberfest still about opening pull requests?
No, 2026 moves away from counting PRs toward high-value, meaningful learning about open source AI.
How much does it cost to take part?
The page does not state a cost for participating in a Fest.
How do I organize a Fest?
You apply to host a Fest once applications open, and organizers can sign up for the mailing list for updates in the meantime.
What support do Fest organizers get?
Organizers receive stickers, swag, and prizes for participants, plus financial reimbursement from MLH for certain event-related expenses.
Who runs Hacktoberfest 2026?
It is stewarded by long-time partners Major League Hacking (MLH) and DEV, with DigitalOcean as presenting partner.
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