diff --git a/.DEREK.yml b/.DEREK.yml
index 9e25e0dd..35fd9f70 100644
--- a/.DEREK.yml
+++ b/.DEREK.yml
@@ -11,7 +11,8 @@ features:
  - comments
  - pr_description_required
  - release_notes
-# - hacktoberfest # Enable each October
+ - hacktoberfest
+ - no_newbies # Newbies are welcome, however there is some automation that will affect you during October. You are welcome, please be patient with us.
 
 contributing_url: https://github.com/openfaas/faas/blob/master/CONTRIBUTING.md