From my experience of going to 20+ hackathons, few things come to mind
1. Have a well defined target audience and reach out early. People make weekend plans.
2. Be very clear about judging criteria.
3. Heavy presence of organizers throughout the event. It's not always easy for newbies at hackathon's, and organizers/mentors being around during the whole thing is great motivation.
4. A good venue where people can find quiet space/at the same time space to socialize.
5. Find a good balance between cheerleading during the hackathon and people working. Sponsor events are important, but continuous interruptions do not help flow work.
1. Have a well defined target audience and reach out early. People make weekend plans.
2. Be very clear about judging criteria.
3. Heavy presence of organizers throughout the event. It's not always easy for newbies at hackathon's, and organizers/mentors being around during the whole thing is great motivation.
4. A good venue where people can find quiet space/at the same time space to socialize.
5. Find a good balance between cheerleading during the hackathon and people working. Sponsor events are important, but continuous interruptions do not help flow work.