A hackathon is an event where individuals come together to collaborate on software or hardware projects within a limited time frame, usually ranging from a few hours to a couple of days. Participants, often called hackers, form teams to brainstorm ideas, develop prototypes, and present their work at the end of the event. Hackathons can focus on specific themes, such as social good, education, or technology innovation. These events are popular in the tech community and often hosted by companies, universities, or organizations to encourage creativity and problem-solving. Participants can gain valuable experience, network with others, and sometimes win prizes for their projects.