({also codefest, datathon, hack day, hackfest)
A hackathon is a time-limited event where individuals or groups compete to produce software or hardware based on the event’s criteria. Hackathons typically run for 24 hours, with 36 and 48-hour long hackathons being less common. Hackathons are primarily coding events, but teams often include graphic designers, project managers, and others to help with development.
The term “hackathon” is a portmanteau of the words “hack” and “marathon.” Despite the criminal associations of the word “hacker,” hackathons typically promote only ethical coding and seek solutions to social problems.