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Holiday fundraisers are all about timing. Schools, churches and youth
sports groups can schedule their fundraisers to coincide with a time
when most people’s spending increases.
Part one looked at Christmas tree and wreath sales as a way of raising
funds for non-profit groups. Part two, explored a common but profitable
holiday fundraiser, catalog sales. In Part three, we’ll see what it
takes to throw a holiday carnival.
A fundraising event like a holiday carnival can be labor intensive, so
start with your volunteer base. Delegate responsibilities to the
committee chairs. You’ll need someone in charge of ticket sales,
decorations, advertising, entertainment, food, and so on.
A holiday carnival is a great place to also host a silent auction, bake
sale, or large item raffle. These fundraising events within the event
can draw large dollars.
Depending on your expected attendee volume, you may consider raffling a
4 day cruise, and MP3 player, a large screen TV, and such. Look to
local businesses to help defer the cost of the large item or items.
Begin selling raffle tickets as far in advance of the event as
possible.
Along with raffle tickets, sell event tickets in advance and allow
advance purchased tickets to be picked up at the ‘will call’ table.
Intersperse ticket sale tables throughout your event location.
I once helped with a carnival event for the elementary school. We made
use of the gym or multipurpose room, but also spread games throughout
the hallways. This allowed each classroom to host a game like ring toss
or face painting and spread the crowd out so we didn’t experience over
crowding.
Cake walks at holiday carnivals are usually very successful. Since the
baked goods are donated, you can receive greater profit from each item.
Sell smaller items such as cookies and brownies at the bake sale, and
use the larger items like whole cakes and pies at the cake walk.
If you have the space, look into using a large inflatable game like
giant slides or obstacle courses. These can be rented for the day and
are a large draw for younger children.
Use your imagination for planning your fundraising event. Consider how
many people you might expect, as well as the age range. Tailor your
games and events to appeal to the masses. Keep it fun and your carnival
will be a huge success! |