Hacktoberfest is a month-long event that encourages open-source contributions, and being prepared can make a significant difference in the experience. Maintaining a well-organized repository with clear guidelines and automation tools can help attract contributors and reduce headaches. A clearly labeled issue system and automated linting can facilitate collaboration and improve code quality. By implementing these strategies, maintainers can create a welcoming environment for contributors, even when faced with an influx of pull requests or few contributions. The event's organizers also offer support resources, such as DigitalOcean swag, to encourage community engagement and outreach. By following these tips, maintainers can successfully navigate Hacktoberfest and foster a positive open-source experience.