For many organisations, such as non-profits, schools, and churches, coming up with good, fun ideas for fundraising is essential. People would almost always rather attend an exciting event rather than simply donate money. With the cost of living rising and 60% of the UK public saying it’s harder to give to charity now than it was six months ago, you need to work harder than ever to find unique ways to raise money.

Fortunately, there have never been so many fundraising options available, with traditional avenues like auctions and raffles joined by crowdsourcing and social media. That gives you more tools than ever to attract the funding you need to make the difference your organisation is striving to achieve.

To help you narrow your options down, we’ve put together a list of fun ways to raise money for charity so you can quickly find the ones that meet your needs and are within your budget. Look for these handy ratings to quickly and easily judge whether a particular type of event fits your organisation:

1) Fundraising potential from ★ to ★★★★

2) Overhead cost from £ to ££££

3) Event complexity from + to ++++

Fundraising potential assesses how much, comparatively, an event might be expected to raise. Overhead cost estimates the level of funding you’ll first need to put on the event. And, event complexity measures the many moving parts and variables an event contains.

Explore good ideas for charity events

Fun ways to raise money for charity

Fast and easy fundraising ideas

Quirky fundraising ideas to raise money for charity

Extreme fundraising event ideas for charity events

Community charity fundraising ideas

Sports fundraising event ideas to raise money for charity

Fun arts and crafts fundraising ideas for charity

Virtual fundraising event ideas for charity

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Fun ways to raise money for charity

1. Gala or a ball 

Social fundraising events like galas and balls will bring people together while encouraging them to donate to your cause — and as you know, social interaction is a core part of fundraising events.

Not only are galas and balls fun fundraising ideas, but a recent study found that a nonprofit organisation that prioritises monthly donor programmes experiences a 65.71% increase in income.

A masquerade ball, an enchanted garden gala, or an all-night dance-a-thon are just a few of the charity fundraising events that could bring you big donations.

When and where?

Large, open spaces are ideal for galas and balls. You’ll need a space that you can decorate yourself to whatever theme your heart desires. You’ll also want a large dance floor to let your guests boogie into the night. If weather permits, you could even host your event in an outdoor space. 

Challenges to consider

Galas and balls require a lot of organisation and can be costly. You need to source food, music and decorations. However, you can often get generous sponsors for these charity events.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost £££

3) Event complexity +++

2. Fashion show

Got a catwalk? Got models? You actually don’t need either to pull off a fundraising fashion show. At the Cancer Warrior Fashion Show & Brunch Charity Event in Powder Springs, Georgia, put on by Bald Nation Rocks Against Cancer, the catwalk featured cancer survivors while live music, spoken word, and a silent auction added to the fun.

When and where?

Piggyback onto the four major fashion weeks of New York, London, Milan and Paris – held twice a year on successive weekends typically in February and September, or counter-programme and host yours in summer and winter. Host it indoors or outdoors – set up tents and heaters if there’s a risk of rain or cold weather.

Challenges to consider

Designers and models tend to be the stars of a fashion show; finding stars to make your event stand out takes persistence and a keen eye.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity ++

3. Auction a date

This idea works great if the date in question is someone well-known or beloved in the community. Think outside the box on this one. Maybe it’s your CEO – dressed up for the date as the winner’s choice character from history?

When and where?

Although romance is a year-long affair, an event around Valentine’s Day might attract additional interest.

Challenges to consider

Keep this event fun and light-hearted as a strategy to avoid any unseemly overtones.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost  £

3) Event complexity +

4. Silent auction

Get creative with the auction items. Think about experiences instead of things. Perhaps you have a donor willing to grant access to their holiday home for the weekend, for instance.

When and where?

If your event is tax-deductible, an end-of-year event might inspire additional donations from those seeking to meet certain charitable giving thresholds. Host it in a dining hall, ballroom, or similar indoor venue, which can have better acoustics than outdoor settings.

Challenges to consider

Procuring donations that people will want to bid on is key.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★★

2) Overhead cost  ££

3) Event complexity ++

5. Fete

Skip the antique carousels and make up your own games with homemade stalls and costumes for a lower cost and more personalised event experience.

When and where?

Given that most of the event occurs outdoors, warm weather might be preferred. You’ll need plenty of space, so set up in an expansive car park, large park, or empty field.

Challenges to consider

Along with rides and attractions, fetes typically include food and drink stalls, souvenir booths, and similar features, so there are a wide variety of vendors to accommodate.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost  £££

3) Event complexity ++++

6. Treasure hunt

Use an app like Actionbound to set up a treasure hunt that combines an IRL experience with augmented reality.

When and where?

Choose a place with plenty of features that can help hide your treasures. Hold it outdoors in nice weather or, if rain, snow, or cold pose a threat, rent out an indoor playground or similar area for more comfortable hunting.

Challenges to consider

Some less-tech-savvy guests may be inexperienced with augmented reality features, so be ready to provide some assistance.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost  ££

3) Event complexity +++

7. Raffle

Give a traditional fundraiser raffle a hilarious twist by keeping the prizes a surprise in a ‘test of luck’ raffle.

Let attendees know the fundraiser is a ‘mystery draw’ where participants could win exciting prizes like a complimentary stay-cation for two or not-so-great prizes, like a rock wrapped in tin foil. 

Pool together some money or find a local donor to offer some great (and some not-so-great) prizes. Then, sell raffle tickets to give them away. It’s a simple fundraising method that’s practiced all over the country, and no wonder — it’s easy enough that an organisation of any size can pull it off.

When and where?

The best thing about a raffle is that you can hold it anywhere — you don’t even need a formal event. Simply sell tickets through work or school and let the winners know what their prizes are. If you want to host a fun, social event, find a local community hall or even a park to host your event, if you do it during the warmer months.

Challenges to consider

Procuring prizes is the trickiest part of holding a raffle. You’ll need to reach out to potential donors and ask friends and family members for favours to get the best prizes people will want to buy a ticket for. 

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity ++

Fast and easy fundraising ideas

8. Neighbourhood street party

This is a great way to make money for a local cause or a recent calamity. Have neighbours donate food and drinks and loan out garden chairs.

When and where?

Hold it in a neighbourhood park or set it up in front gardens and driveways. Because it’s outdoors, hold it in spring or summer when the weather permits, or set up outdoor heaters on chillier days.

Challenges to consider

The more neighbours that take part in the event, the more fun your event will be. Choose a cause that your neighbours will be likely to support.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost  ££

3) Event complexity +

9. Community garage sale

Help people declutter and benefit a worthy cause simultaneously by donating to a neighbourhood sale, with the proceeds going to your charity.

When and where?

A garage sale can be held any time of year, so long as the weather won’t prevent setting up your goods in the neighbourhood’s open garages.

Challenges to consider

A successful fundraiser depends on the quantity – and quality – of the goods. Separating out your big-ticket items from the more everyday items can help draw attention to them so they don’t get lost among smaller-value stuff.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost  ££

3) Event complexity +

10. Car wash

This classic isn’t just for secondary school sports teams in teenage dramas. Have the higher-ups in your organisation wash the cars to really appeal to the community.

When and where?

Set up anywhere with access to a tap and hosepipe – and a lot of traffic.

Challenges to consider

Some car paints are sensitive to certain soaps, so be careful to use only approved soaps.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

11. Dog wash

Invite the public to come and get their pooch scrubbed up.

When and where?

You might be especially busy during holiday periods when families want their dogs to look their best. Set up in a garage or garden, where there’s likely to be access to an outdoor tap.

Challenges to consider

Animals can be unpredictable, so be careful to protect against dog bites and require proof of vaccination.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity ++

12. Clothing swap

Hang everyone’s hand-me-downs on clothes racks, and let participants “shop” and swap for one new piece of clothing. Donate all the rest to charity.

When and where?

Hold your swap at the beginning of spring or autumn, when people are changing up their wardrobes. Set up your racks anywhere with good lighting, so people can see the colours and designs clearly.

Challenges to consider

Be sure to bring baskets or bags to carry leftover goods to charity.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

13. Karaoke night

Organise a karaoke night and charge an admission fee at the door and, of course, for drinks. Encourage participants to get pledges from their friends and family for each song they sing.

When and where?

Hold it at a local pub or bar, or rent out equipment and host it in your own space.

Challenges to consider

Karaoke nights are pretty easy to set up once you’ve organised getting a hold of the equipment. You might want to have a designated tech person on hand to deal with any issues!

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

14. Games night

Hold a tabletop board games night and have participants collect pledges or pay an entry fee to play some great board games. Offer prizes for the best plays, winners of challenging games, and more.

When and where?

Local gaming stores have the experience to help you host a board game tournament, but you could do it anywhere with enough space. 

Challenges to consider

Make sure you have a wide variety of games, and make sure there’s a good mix of experienced players and newbies so you have enough people who know how to play the games.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

Quirky fundraising ideas to raise money for charity

15. Charity Dips

Coming up with good dares, like taking a dip or going for an ice swim in a chilly lake or the sea, is a good way to raise money for charity.

When and where?

These commonly happen in winter, often on Christmas or New Year’s Day.

Challenges to consider

Safety is always a concern when dealing with the elements, especially in cold weather. Bring life jackets for those who need them and consider hiring medics to be on hand in case of emergency.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

16. Gaming tournament

Grab some retro consoles, borrow some TVs, and you’ve got yourself a gaming event. Go all night, and you’ve got a marathon. This fundraising event is great for the whole family.

When and where?

Set it on a Saturday or Sunday when more children will be able to participate. Choose an online game or stream on Twitch for an online/hybrid event.

Challenges to consider

Test your A/V equipment and internet connections before the event so you don’t experience technical problems mid-event.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

17. Paint jam

Charity street art events – often called “paint jams” – bring together several street artists to paint live, attracting fans to watch the artists in action, either in-person or by livestreaming. You can also sell art supplies beforehand so your audience can join in on the fun.

When and where?

You’ll want good weather, so rain or snow doesn’t damage the art. Or set up in a gym or community centre where the weather won’t damage the art.

Challenges to consider

Paint can easily stain floors and other surfaces, so bring a protective cover.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity ++

18. Open mic night

Let donors explore their stand-up comedy aspirations with an open mic night. Invite a professional comedian to emcee and keep the night moving.

When and where?

An open mic night can be held any time of year, but to create that unique comedy club ambience, you’ll want to find a venue with a stage and sound system.

Challenges to consider

A spotlight helps the audience see the performer and creates a sense of excitement.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity +++

19. Powder play

WOCRC saw the winter flurries as a fun way to fundraise. If it snows, have a snowball fight, a snowman-making contest, or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try sledging. If there’s no snow around, hire a dry ski slope for fun activities.

When and where?

This is an outdoors-in-deepest-winter affair, so encourage attendees to bring a heavy jacket and gloves!

Challenges to consider

Ensuring participants stay warm in freezing temperatures is essential, so extra jackets, gloves, hats, and blankets.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity ++

Extreme fundraising ideas

20. Murder mystery

Murder mystery nights are a great way to bring some theatre to regular dinner parties, and can easily be held virtually as well as IRL. Include the likes of props and drinks in the ticket price for an effective way to upsell.


To make this event even more fun, why not create a world filled with eerie delights inspired by Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s smash hit, Murder On The Dancefloor.

When and where?

An autumn evening strikes us as appropriately haunting. Rent out an old mansion or a similarly spooky pub for the evening.

Challenges to consider

These events require a certain level of creativity to pull off well, particularly in building a mysterious narrative, so involve your most artistic colleagues.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity +++

21. Muddy obstacle course

Create your own version of Tough Mudder by reserving a field for the day and putting together an obstacle course. People can enter as teams or solo. The fundraising opportunities are twofold as participants both pay to enter and also ask for friends and family sponsorship.

When and where?

Since part of the appeal of an obstacle course is challenging oneself physically, set yours any time of year – although the depths of winter might discourage participants.

Challenges to consider

The courses require a large amount of space, so make sure you have access to a big park or a field.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★★

2) Overhead cost £££

3) Event complexity +++

22. Eating challenge

For those always willing to try adventurous foods, now’s your chance. Instead of haggis or sautéed snails, challenge your contestants to eat “interesting” foods that you can find at home. Think hot dog smoothies or chocolate and cheese pizza. Have people pledge money, and as the cash rolls in, ask your at-home challengers to eat the next strange food combination on the list.

When and where?

A restaurant or dining hall makes a good setting for a food-based event.

Challenges to consider

Food events may require compliance with health regulations, so be sure to check your local rules.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity +++

23. Skydive

Skydiving isn’t just an adrenaline-pumping adventure; it’s also a heartwarming way to help others. By taking part in a skydive, you get to have the time of your life while raising money and awareness for a cause close to your heart. Plus, the excitement and positivity surrounding the event can inspire even more people to chip in and support the charity. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

When and where?

Warmer months are preferable for skydives. Not only for the person doing the skydive, but for the spectators, too.

Challenges to consider

Skydives require someone to be brave enough to take the leap. Safety is also essential, and the people taking part will have to meet the health and age requirements. 

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity +++

Community charity fundraising ideas

24. Bake-off

Gather neighbours and friends together at a park or church to see whose brownies or lemon drizzle is the best. Don’t forget to offer a prize to Star Baker!

When and where?

Any time of year works well for a baking event! Hold it in a park if the sun is shining or use a local church hall if temperatures drop.

Challenges to consider

Food safety is paramount, so check with local authorities about what regulations are in effect.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

25. Seedling sale

Raising houseplants from seed can be extremely rewarding. So set up a plant sale where local green thumbs can sell cuttings from their favourite plants to raise money for your chosen charity.

When and where?

A seedling sale should be held in the spring. Choose a verdant setting such as a garden or park.

Challenges to consider

Avoid excess plastic waste by encouraging attendees to bring their own seedling pots or to reuse yoghurt pots, drinking cans, and even folded newspaper.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity +

Sports fundraising ideas

26. Rounders competition

Invite local sports people to see who can get the most rounders.

When and where?

Rounders’ season starts in spring and continues throughout the summer. Reserve a local field or park through your town or county council.

Challenges to consider

Bring extra gloves, bats, and balls in case attendees forget to bring their own.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity +++

27. H-O-R-S-E competition

Challenge participants to this classic American game, where two or more participants must match each other’s basketball shots, from wherever on the court they decide to shoot. Ask for donations per shot made.

When and where?

This event can be held throughout the year, either at an outdoor basketball court in a park or, if the weather’s cold, head indoors at a school or sports centre.

Challenges to consider

Publish official rules so the competitors are aware of them. You may want to include a referee to make rulings on any questions of fair play that may arise.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity ++

28. Beach volleyball tournament

Team up in twos for fun in the sun and sand. Invite registrants to sign up as teams or put random teams together by picking names randomly. Ask for donations from participants and attendees, with the collected funds donated to the tournament winner’s favourite charity.

When and where?

Organise this for the height of summer. If you don’t live near the coast, try setting up a temporary sandbox in a park.

Challenges to consider

For people to be able to watch the competition live, consider setting up folding beach chairs for that summer feel, or, if your budget allows, renting – and setting up – fixed, tiered seating.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity +++

29. Golf tournament

Play a full 18-hole PGA-style tournament, or simply make it a putting tournament to include those daunted by a longer event. Or make it a mini golf tournament for a child-friendly affair. Charge green fees as donations to your charity.

When and where?

Set your day on the greens in spring or summer on your town or city’s public golf course. Or partner with a golf club for access to additional courses.

Challenges to consider

Rain can delay or even prevent your tournament from finishing, so pay attention to the latest forecasts. Make sure registrants provide contact information in case you need to inform them of any scheduling changes.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost £££

3) Event complexity +++

Fun arts and crafts fundraising ideas for charity

30. Collaging classes

Invite a local art instructor to teach principles of composition, colour design, and collage. Use old newspapers and magazines to create unique works – since no drawing skills are necessary, collages can be especially attractive. As a bonus, they can be themed around your charity’s goals and shared on social media – with the creator’s permission, of course.

When and where?

Art instructors might be most available when school is out, such as during the summer and winter holidays. This should be held indoors, so the wind won’t blow photos and other materials away.

Challenges to consider

Stock up on magazines, newspapers, posters, and other art that can be used by your participants in their collages.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity +

31. Tie-dye workshop

Show participants how to create the perfect psychedelic tie-dyed t-shirt with a workshop for families. Let attendees design and dye their own shirts for a £10 donation that benefits your cause. Stock up on plenty of white t-shirts to sell beforehand for extra money.

When and where?

Use an art studio or garage, where spilt dyes won’t damage anything.

Challenges to consider

For family-friendly events, choose dyes that can be easily washed off the skin, so parents can clean their kids with minimal irritation.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity +

32. Paint Jam

Charity street art events — often called “paint jams”— are among the most unique fundraisers you can host. 

You can also sell art supplies beforehand so a wider audience can join in on the fun.

When and where?

Anywhere, anytime! Bring together several street artists to paint live, reeling in fans to watch the artists in action, in person, via live streaming, or by video. 

Challenges to consider

You’ll need to source quite a lot of art supplies to ensure the artists have plenty to work with to create an entertaining spectacle. 

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost ££

3) Event complexity ++

Virtual fundraising event ideas for charity

33. Online gaming tournament

Grab some retro consoles, borrow some TVs, and you’ve got yourself a gaming event. Host it online, and you’ve got yourself a gaming marathon. 

This fundraising event is great for families, but it’s also a fantastic option for event organisers looking for an easy fundraising idea appropriate for all ages. 

When and where?

Anytime, anywhere! Host it online and stream via TwitchGo.

Challenges to consider

To ensure your virtual event goes smoothly, we recommend testing your tech equipment and internet connections in advance so you don’t experience technical problems mid-event.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

34. Virtual pub quiz

Put a spin on the traditional pub quiz and ask teams to raise funds to enter the competition. You can set a minimum they have to reach to ensure the event raises the necessary funds. Of course, people can donate from their own pockets to enter too. 

Break people into teams and offer prizes for the top-performing team. Make sure some questions are specific to your cause so that everyone is educated while they’re having fun.

When and where?

You can host this event online for reduced costs. It’s also easy to host in person. Local bars, restaurants and cafés are great for this type of event.

Challenges to consider

None! It’s easy to set up a virtual quiz.

Expert opinion

1) Fundraising potential ★★

2) Overhead cost £

3) Event complexity ++

Get started on your next fundraiser

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