The University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene is partnering with Gizmo-CDA and the Innovation Collective to get local children interested in learning about computer coding and technology.

UI Coeur d’Alene’s Hour of Code event runs from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9, at 410 Sherman Ave. in downtown Coeur d’Alene. The Hour of Code is a kid-friendly activity, with no coding experience necessary. It will be followed by a hackathon for more experienced programmers, ages 14 and older, starting at 6 p.m.

The Hour of Code is a one-hour introduction to computer science designed to demystify coding for students and encourage them to pursue technology careers. Started by Code.org in 2013, the event has grown to include more than 100 million students from more than 180 countries.

“As we introduce a four-year computer science degree right here in Coeur d’Alene, it’s important for us to encourage kids in our community to develop high-tech skills at an early age,” said Charles Buck, UI associate vice president and executive officer of UI Coeur d’Alene. “The Hour of Code is a great way for us to show students in the Coeur d’Alene area that anyone can code, regardless of age, background or experience.”

Participants in the Hour of Code will be eligible to win a mini-drone, and hackathon entrants will be eligible to win a wireless, water-resistant Bluetooth speaker. Admission to both events is free. Although the Hour of Code is designed with kids in mind, anyone is welcome to participate. To reserve a spot, visit www.gizmo-cda.org.