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Hack Club Haven

Orlando

Game jam for teens 13-18Nov 14-15 @ Orlando, FLWin a Meta Quest 3S + more!

Full Sail University Blackmore Studio
Contact us: orlando@haven.hackclub.com
more info

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What is a game jam?

It’s a social coding event where you make a video game with friends + free food!

follow workshops or create at your own pace

Learn & Build

  • Attendees hanging out together
  • A group of teens working at a shared table

meet new people and form lifelong relationships

Make Friends

  • A spread of snacks and merch
  • Attendees holding up their prizes

can’t say no to free snacks :)

Free Food & Prizes

Don’t game jams sound awesome?

This November, YOU can join the world's largest teen game jam. Yes, you! It doesn’t matter if you have years of experience, or just learned what they are today.

You’ll join thousands of teens making games from all around the world. Don't consider yourself a game dev? No problem - we have tons of workshops for you to make your game!

This is your chance to learn something new, meet new friends, andgo on an incredible adventure together!

Here is how you can join a game jam this November!

(Don't worry, we'll guide you through each step)

What happens on the day?

Saturday - 11/14

  1. 9:00 am doors open Check in, meet other participants, find your team, and grab breakfast before the event begins.
  2. 9:30 am opening ceremony We’ll go over the rules, schedule, and everything you need to know for the weekend.
  3. 10:30 am start building The game jam officially begins! Start building your game!
  4. 12:30 pm lunch
  5. 5:30 pm dinner
  6. 8:30 pm announcements We’ll wrap up day one with announcements and reminders before everyone heads home for the night.

Sunday - 11/15

  1. 9:00 am doors open Come back, get settled in, and prepare for the final day of building and competition.
  2. 9:30 am opening We’ll cover the plan for day two, important deadlines, and anything you need to know before getting back to work.
  3. 12:30 pm lunch
  4. 4:00 pm project submission Games should be submitted by 4:00 pm. If you need extra time, the absolute final submission deadline is 5:00 pm.
  5. 4:30 pm dinner and start of game showcase Grab dinner while everyone begins showing off the games they created throughout the weekend.
  6. 7:30 pm award ceremony We’ll announce the winning teams, hand out prizes, and recognize some of the awesome games.
  7. 8:15 pm final announcements and departure We’ll close out Haven with our final announcements.

Awesome prizes up for grabs!Build a game, compete, and win!

We take safety seriously. You can see our parent guide here, or they can reach out to us at haven@hackclub.com for questions.

Our sponsors

FAQ

  • Am I eligible?

    If you’re age 13-18, you’re eligible! No prior experience required.

  • Is this free?

    Yes! Hack Club is a nonprofit helping teens build technical projects at no cost.

  • But I’ve never coded before!

    Perfect! Game jams are designed for beginners. You’ll have workshops, mentors, and teammates to help you every step of the way.

  • What if my parents are concerned?

    We’re here to help! You can see our parent guide here, or they can reach out to us at haven@hackclub.com for questions.

  • I still have questions!

    Join #haven-help on Slack or reach out to us at haven@hackclub.com!

  • Can I organize a Haven?

    Absolutely! We’re always looking for passionate organizers. If you’re ready to bring the magic of game development to your community, we’d love to help.

  • Why should I organize a Haven?

    You’ll make an impact on your community, whether inspiring someone to make their first game or helping someone find friends in tech. Leading an event is usually very difficult, but we are providing support to help you along the way!

  • What are the steps to organizing?

    First, apply through our organizer form. Then we’ll guide you through venue booking, team building, workshop planning, and day-of coordination.

  • Do we get volunteer hours?

    Many schools accept organizing hours as community service. If your school requires documentation, we can provide it!

  • Can I join an organizing team?

    Of course! Many cities have organizing teams. Reach out to organizers in your area or apply to join an existing team.

Sign up!