CurseForge’s Minecraft ModJam 2026 is live, featuring $50,000 in total prizes and 59 winning spots! This year’s contest theme is "Echoes of the Past", calling on modders, pack makers, and add-on creators to bring ancient themes, lost artifacts, and prehistoric concepts into Minecraft. Whether you code Java Mods, build Bedrock Add-ons, or design Resource Packs, read on to find out how you can enter and claim your share of the rewards!
The Contest Categories & Prizes Breakdown
To make sure every creator has a chance to shine, ModJam 2026 features 4 distinct submission categories spanning both Java and Bedrock Edition:
- Java Mods ($1,000 each - 15 Grand Winners): Code-based projects adding new blocks, mechanics, mobs, or dimensions. (GitHub repository link required)
- Java Datapacks ($1,000 each - 5 Grand Winners): Native world-generation tweaks, custom loot, and custom game rules. (GitHub repository link required)
- Resource Packs ($1,000 each - 5 Grand Winners): Re-imagined textures, audio, models, and UI for Java or Bedrock.
- Bedrock Add-ons ($1,000 each - 10 Grand Winners): Custom JSON-based behaviors, blocks, and mobs built specifically for Bedrock.
In addition to category prizes, 4 Community Favorites voted on by players will take home $2,000 each, and all grand finalists will receive an exclusive CurseForge swag bundle.
Mid-Contest Rewards & Timeline
Don't wait until the last minute to submit! We’re awarding $150 mid-contest rewards to 20 creators who submit approved projects early:
- Submissions Open: July 21, 2026
- Mid-Contest Reward Drops: August 4 & August 18 (10 winners each round)
- Submissions Close: September 1, 2026
- Community Voting: September 8 – September 14
- Winners Announced: September 17, 2026
How to Enter
- Build Your Concept: Create a new project targeting Minecraft version 26.1+ inspired by the Echoes of the Past theme.
- Publish on CurseForge: Upload your project under your chosen category.
- Submit the Form: Once approved and live on CurseForge, fill out the official ModJam submission form.
- Join the Community: Drop into the CurseForge Official Discord to share progress, exchange ideas, and collaborate with fellow participants.
Need Inspiration? Think Big!
"Echoes of the Past" is a massive canvas. Whether you draw from ancient mythologies, forgotten ruins, or historical warfare, the possibilities are endless. Looking for ideas? Think along the lines of:
- Ancient Architecture & Exploration: Uncover lost temples, buried tombs, or overgrown ruins.
- Historical Dynasties & Eras: Dive into feudal Japan or 19th-century conflicts.
- Relics & Equipment: Forge legendary armor, forgotten siege engines, or lost magic.
Pro-Tips for Creators
- Submit Early for Moderation: All CurseForge projects go through moderation. Don't wait until August 31st to upload - getting approved early also qualifies you for the $150 Mid-Contest Rewards on Aug 4 & Aug 18!
- Don't forget GitHub: Java Mods and Datapacks require a GitHub link (or shared private repo) in your submission form for judge review.
- Check Your Version: Double-check that your project targets Minecraft 26.1+.
Not a Creator? Vote & Win CurseForge Premium!
You don't need to write code to participate in ModJam 2026. Once submissions close on September 1st, community voting opens from September 8 to September 14. By voting for your favorite projects to help them win the $2,000 Community Favorite title, you'll also be entered into a giveaway where 10 voters will win a 1-Year CurseForge Premium subscription!
Looking for a Team? Find Your ModJam Squad!
You don’t have to code or design alone! If you’re a programmer looking for a 3D modeler, or a texture artist seeking a Java developer, head over to the #modjam-collab channel in the official CurseForge Authors Discord. Team up, combine your talents, and bring a bigger project to life.
What Makes a Winning Entry?
When judges review your "Echoes of the Past" submission, they’ll be evaluating projects based on three core pillars:
- Theme Fit: How creatively and effectively does your project interpret "Echoes of the Past"?
- Quality & Polish: Are textures crisp? Is the code clean and stable? Are Bedrock behaviors smooth?
- Originality & Fun: Does your mod, pack, or add-on offer players an enjoyable, novel Minecraft experience?
The clock is ticking, and history is waiting to be rewritten! Whether you're a seasoned developer or building your very first add-on, The 2026 ModJam is your stage to showcase what you can do.
Head over to the official ModJam 2026 Landing Page to read the official terms, grab your tools, and start building. Good luck, creators - we can't wait to see what echoes you bring into the future!
