KFest has a few traditions and memes going back several years. Some of our more interesting events are the contests we have during the conference. Participation is optional, but feel free to jump in for the full-on KFest experience! YOU COULD WIN A COOL PRIZE!

HackFest – Starting Wednesday morning and going through Saturday, coders write original programs using specific tools and languages native to the Apple II, then show them off to the conference attendees. A panel of judges reviews and selects the winners (1st, 2nd and 3rd place). Please see the Official HackFest Rules and archive of past entries.

Door Sign – a door sign can say a lot about the attendees. Where you’re from, who you are and what your interests are. You can put up a poster, picture or anything clever or fanciful (usually Apple II related) to wow the judges. You’ll need to use tape (no tacks or anything that would leave a hole in the door) to hang your door sign.

Wacky Tie – KFest alum Roger Wagner was known for his colorful taste in ties. We honor his past contributions to KFest by having a wacky tie contest every year. Ties can be wacky, metaphorical, traditional or nostalgic in nature. It comes down to whatever strikes the judge’s fancy.  This year is special since Roger is our keynote speaker.

Bite the Bag – a physical game of skill, coordination and nerves of steel! Participants must pick up a paper bag off the floor using only their teeth. The hitch? Only one part of your body can be touching the floor at a time, and as the rounds progress, more and more of the bag is torn away — sometimes until it’s a mere scrap on the floor. If you’re averse to rug burns and potential bruising or full on face plants, this game might not be for you — but if you like watching other people do these things, it’s quite the spectacle.

Did we mention PRIZES? WE WANT YOU TO PARTICIPATE! You’ll have a chance to win something cool and you’ll have a great time too.