CrimsonCode 2026
Event Concluded
February 21-22, 2026
A 24-hour hackathon hosted by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) at Washington State University.
Innovate. Collaborate. Create.
CrimsonCode is Washington State University's premier 24-hour hackathon. We bring together hundreds of students from across the country to build amazing projects, learn new skills, and connect with industry leaders. Whether you're a first-time hacker or a seasoned pro, CrimsonCode is the place to turn your ideas into reality.
24 Hours
Non-stop hacking
250+
Hackers & Creators
$2,500+
In prizes & awards
Choose Your Track
Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned coder, we have a path designed for you to succeed.
Foundational
Pre-CPTS 223 (or equivalent)
Hover to learn more
Tap to learn more
Foundational Track
Pre-CPTS 223 (or equivalent)
Perfect for those who haven't taken an advanced data structures course (like CPTS 223). This track helps you learn fundamentals, build your first project, and connect with mentors. No prior hackathon experience is needed—just a willingness to learn.
- ✓Compete for prizes against people similar to you in terms of proficiency.
- ✓Dedicated mentors to help you get started and overcome challenges.
- ✓Network with sponsors' senior engineers and recruiters.
- ✓A welcoming environment focused on collaboration and learning.
Advanced
CPTS 223+ (or equivalent)
Hover to learn more
Tap to learn more
Advanced Track
CPTS 223+ (or equivalent)
For students who have completed an advanced data structures course (like CPTS 223). This track is for experienced hackers who want to tackle complex challenges, utilize cutting-edge technology, and compete for the grand prize.
- ✓Tackle challenging prompts with advanced APIs and datasets.
- ✓Network with sponsors' senior engineers and recruiters.
- ✓Utilize more advanced tools like WSU's supercomputers.
Frequently Asked Questions
A hackathon is a 24-hour sprint-like event where computer programmers and others involved in software development, including graphic designers, interface designers, project managers, and others, collaborate intensively on software projects and present their projects to judges at the end of the 24 hours to compete for prizes.
Any current university student, from any major, is welcome to attend! Whether you're a seasoned coder or a complete beginner, there's a place for you at CrimsonCode. We also welcome high school students! (Note: If you're a high school student, you will still be placed in the foundational track with other freshmen and sophomores.)
Yes! Thanks to our amazing sponsors, attendance, food, drinks, and swag are all completely free for accepted hackers.
No problem! We'll have dedicated team formation events at the beginning of the hackathon. You can also connect with other hackers on our Discord server beforehand.
You'll need your laptop, chargers, a backpack, and any other hardware you plan to use. We also recommend a sleeping bag and toiletries for comfort.
Yes. All attendees, sponsors, partners, volunteers and staff at our hackathon are required to agree with the MLH Code of Conduct. We are dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable environment for everyone.
Teams can consist of 1 to 4 members. We'll have team formation events at the beginning of the hackathon if you're looking for teammates!
All projects must be started from scratch at the event. You cannot work on, copy, or iterate on past projects. Using your own pre-built APIs, libraries, or third-party services is allowed and encouraged!
Yes, CrimsonCode 2026 is an in-person only event held on the Washington State University campus in Pullman, WA. We believe the best hackathon experience comes from the energy and collaboration of being together in one physical space!
Our Sponsors
CrimsonCode is made possible by the generous support of our industry partners.
Event Schedule
The hackathon has concluded. Thank you to all our participants and sponsors!
Saturday
February 21
9:00 AM
Doors Open & Check-in
Meet the sponsors at their tables and get your free swag!
10:00 AM
Opening Ceremony
Keynote by SEL, GESA, and MLH introductions.
11:00 AM
Hacking Officially Begins
Team forming and project kick-off.
11:30 AM
GitHub Workshop
Learn the basics of GitHub to start your project off strong!
12:30 PM
Lunch: Domino's
Start off with some pizza!
1:00 PM
GESA Talk
Special presentation by GESA.
2:30 PM
MLH Workshop : GitHub Copilot
30-minute workshop by MLH.
3:30 PM
Snacks
Satisfy that afternoon hunger.
3:30 PM
MLH Workshop : Google AI Studio
Another 30-minute session with MLH.
6:30 PM
MLH Mini Game : MS Paint Bob Ross
De-stress with a fun mini-game! You’ll be watching a Bob Ross video alongside hackers and creating a masterpiece.
7:00 PM
Dinner: Panda Express
Evening meal provided by Panda Express.
10:00 PM
Yoga
Relax and stretch with a yoga session.
12:00 AM
Midnight Snacks
Fuel for the late-night grind.
Sunday
February 22
9:00 AM
Breakfast: Einstein Bros Bagels
Good morning! Fresh bagels are served.
9:00 AM
1-Hour Warning
Final stretch before submission.
10:00 AM
Initial Submission
Submit a initial draft of your project to Devpost.
10:30 AM
Hacking Ends
Times up! Hacking is officially over.
11:00 AM
Judging Starts
1:00 PM
Judging Ends & Lunch: Jimmy John's
Judging is complete. Enjoy some Jimmy John's!
2:00 PM
Closing Ceremony
Awards and final presentations.
2:45 PM
Final Remarks
Dismissal and event wrap-up.