What Is a Hackathon?

Published on October 12, 2026

A hackathon is an event where small teams build a working prototype in a fixed amount of time, usually 24 to 48 hours, and then present it to a jury. The word joins “hack”, in the sense of building something quickly and cleverly, and “marathon”. It has nothing to do with breaking into computers.

How a hackathon works

The details differ from event to event, but most follow the same arc. This is how Hack Esbjerg 2026 ran:

  1. Opening. The organizers present the challenges, the rules and the schedule.
  2. Team forming. People without a team pitch ideas and find teammates. Teams were 2 to 4 people.
  3. Hacking. Teams design and build for 24 hours. Mentors help with technical questions, brainstorming and debugging, and workshops run alongside.
  4. Pitching. Every team demonstrates its project to the judges.
  5. Awards. Prizes are handed out across several categories. There were seven in 2026.

The 2026 schedule shows the full timeline, and the rules show what a typical rule set covers.

Who is a hackathon for?

Anyone who wants to build something. You do not have to be a strong programmer. Teams need people who can design, research a problem, test and present as much as people who write code. Beginners are welcome at most events, and a hackathon is one of the quickest ways to learn a new tool, because you use it on a real problem with help close by.

What do you get out of it?

  • Something finished to show, even if it is rough
  • Practice working in a team under a deadline
  • Contact with mentors, companies and other developers
  • Prizes, if the judges like what you built

Curious what teams manage in a day? Browse the 13 projects from Hack Esbjerg 2026.

What to bring

Hackers at Hack Esbjerg brought a laptop and charger, headphones, a phone charger and a valid ID. For the night: a sleeping bag or blanket, toiletries and a change of clothes. Food and drinks were provided.

What does it cost?

It depends on the event. Many student hackathons are free because sponsors cover the costs. Hack Esbjerg 2026 was free to attend, with the venue and meals included.

Try one

The best way to understand a hackathon is to go to one. See how to find hackathons in Denmark, read the FAQ, or follow the plans for Hack Esbjerg 2027.