35 Holiday Fundraising Ideas: Year-Round Guide

Are you ready to boost your nonprofit's fundraising efforts with exciting holiday fundraising ideas? Look no further! We've compiled a list of 35 innovative ideas that will spread joy and help you achieve your financial goals. From traditional festivities to unique celebrations, there's something for every holiday. Get ready to inspire generosity and make a lasting impact with these holiday fundraising ideas for nonprofits.

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5 Creative Christmas Fundraising Ideas to Spark Festive Generosity

Christmas, with its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and heartwarming traditions, presents a golden opportunity for nonprofits to raise funds while spreading holiday cheer. From Santa fun runs to charming Christmas tree ornament sales, the holiday season offers a myriad of creative avenues to engage your community and garner support for your cause. As the air fills with the spirit of giving, consider how your nonprofit can harness the magic of Christmas to make a meaningful impact. By embracing these holiday fundraising ideas, you can not only raise vital funds but also create lasting memories and contribute to the goodwill that defines this special time of year.

1. Virtual Christmas Concert

Host a virtual Christmas concert featuring local musicians, singers, and performers. Set up an online ticketing system where attendees can purchase tickets to access the live-streamed event. You can also include an option for viewers to donate more during the concert. Promote the event through social media, email newsletters, and your organization's website.

2. Holiday Craft Fair

Organize an in-person holiday craft fair where local artisans and crafters can showcase and sell their handmade goods. Charge a booth fee to vendors and encourage them to donate a portion of their sales to your nonprofit. This event raises funds, supports local artists, and brings the community together.

3. Christmas Cookie Exchange

 Host a Christmas cookie exchange event where participants bake and exchange batches of cookies. Charge an entry fee for participants and encourage them to bring a certain number of cookies to share. You can also include a competition for the best-decorated cookies and have attendees vote by donating.

4. Elf for a Day

Offer a unique experience where donors can become an "Elf for a Day." Participants donate and, in return, get to dress up as Santa's helpers and assist with gift-wrapping, spreading holiday cheer, or other festive activities. Provide them with a certificate or badge to recognize their contribution.

5. 12 Days of Giving Campaign

Launch a "12 Days of Giving" campaign leading up to Christmas. Share a heartwarming story, a holiday recipe, or a fun holiday activity each day on your social media channels and website. Encourage supporters to make a donation corresponding to the day's theme. For example, on the 4th day, ask for donations of $4. This campaign creates a sense of anticipation and engagement.

5 Thoughtful Thanksgiving Fundraising Ideas to Share the Spirit of Gratitude

Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and unity, and what better way to celebrate than by harnessing its spirit for meaningful fundraising? Thanksgiving fundraising offers a unique opportunity to engage your community in acts of kindness. From hosting a heartwarming gratitude gala where attendees share what they're thankful for to organizing a volunteer-a-thon that encourages supporters to give their time to a cause, there are numerous ways to channel the Thanksgiving sentiment into impactful fundraising endeavors. 

6. Thanksgiving Feast Fundraiser

Host a community Thanksgiving dinner or potluck. Participants can purchase tickets to attend, and the funds raised go toward your nonprofit's cause. You can partner with local restaurants or caterers to provide the food or encourage attendees to bring their favorite Thanksgiving dishes. Create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where attendees can enjoy a delicious meal together while supporting your organization.

7. Gratitude Tree Campaign

Set up a "gratitude tree" at a prominent location, such as a local mall, community center, or your nonprofit's office. Encourage people to write what they're thankful for on paper leaves and hang them on the tree in exchange for a donation. This visual display of gratitude can be a heartwarming reminder of the holiday season's spirit while raising funds for your cause.

8. Virtual Cooking Class

Organize a virtual Thanksgiving cooking class or baking workshop. Partner with a local chef or culinary expert who can guide participants through preparing a traditional Thanksgiving dish or a unique holiday recipe. Charge a participation fee and provide the recipe in advance so attendees can follow along. This interactive and educational event can unite people while raising funds for your nonprofit.

9. Turkey Trot Fun Run

Host a Turkey Trot, a Thanksgiving-themed fun run or walk event. Participants can register and pay an entry fee for your fundraising goal. Create a festive atmosphere with Thanksgiving decorations, and offer prizes for various categories such as best costume or fastest time. You can choose to host an in-person or virtual event, allowing participants to complete their run in their own neighborhoods.

10. Thanksgiving Thank-a-Thon

Set up a phone or video call thank-a-thon where your nonprofit's staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries personally call donors to express gratitude for their support. This personalized approach strengthens donor relationships and provides an opportunity to share updates on your nonprofit's achievements and future plans. Encourage supporters to donate during or after the call as a way to give thanks for their ongoing support.

5 Sparkling New Year's Fundraising Ideas to Start the Year Strong

As the clock strikes midnight and the world ushers in a fresh start, seize the opportunity to kick off the year with impactful holiday fundraising ideas. New Year's offers a unique chance to inspire resolutions for positive change while raising funds for your noble cause. Let the dawn of a new year mark the beginning of your nonprofit's continued journey toward making a difference.

11. Resolution Run/Walk Event: 

Organize a New Year's resolution-themed run or walk event. Participants can register and pay a fee to join the event, and you can offer incentives like commemorative medals or T-shirts for those who participate. Consider incorporating a charity component by encouraging participants to fundraise beyond the registration fee.

12. Virtual New Year's Eve Party

Host an online New Year's Eve party via a platform like Zoom. Create a fun and interactive virtual event with live music, virtual games, trivia, and even a countdown to the New Year. Attendees can purchase tickets to access the event, and you can set up donation links throughout the evening.

13. New Year's Fundraising Challenge

Launch a fundraising challenge where participants commit to a specific goal for the new year (e.g., reading a certain number of books, running a certain distance, learning a new skill). Participants then gather pledges from friends and family for each milestone they achieve, with all funds going to your cause.

14. New Year's Resolution Auction

Collect unique and exciting items or experiences that align with typical New Year's resolutions. For example, offer personal training sessions, cooking classes, spa packages, or even a month's supply of healthy snacks. Hold an online auction where supporters can bid on these items, and all proceeds go to your nonprofit.

15. Digital Gratitude Campaign

Shift the focus from resolutions to gratitude. Launch a digital campaign where supporters can donate in honor of something they're grateful for from the past year. Share these messages of gratitude on your social media platforms to inspire others to donate as well.

5 Hauntingly Good Halloween Fundraising Ideas to Delight and Support

Halloween isn't just about costumes and candy; it's also a fantastic opportunity for your nonprofit to conjure up some fundraising magic. Embrace the eerie ambiance of the season with haunted house tours, pumpkin carving contests, or a spine-chilling costume party. Engage your community in a fun and frightful way, all while raising funds to support your cause. So, why wait for the witching hour? Dive into Halloween fundraising and watch your efforts brew up a cauldron of support and generosity.

16. Haunted House Experience

Transform a space into a spooky haunted house filled with themed rooms, eerie decorations, and surprises at every corner. Charge an entrance fee for visitors to experience the haunted attraction. Make sure to include volunteers or actors to add to the scare factor. To offset costs, you can also partner with local businesses for sponsorships or in-kind donations.

17. Pumpkin Carving Contest

Organize a pumpkin carving or decorating contest in your community. Participants can pay an entry fee to showcase their artistic pumpkin creations. Host the contest in a central location or online, allowing people to vote for their favorites by donating to your nonprofit. Offer prizes for various categories, including scariest, funniest, and most creative pumpkins.

18. Costume Parade and Contest

Plan a Halloween costume parade in a public space, such as a park or downtown area. Encourage participants of all ages to wear their best costumes and walk in the parade. Charge a registration fee for each participant. Consider partnering with local businesses to provide prizes for different costume categories and encourage donations from spectators.

19. Trick-or-Treat for a Cause

Work with local businesses or neighborhoods to organize a "Trick-or-Treat for a Cause" event. Distribute collection boxes or bags to participants as they go trick-or-treating, and ask for small donations or spare change instead of, or in addition to, candy. This is a fun way to involve the entire community in your fundraising efforts.

20. Virtual Halloween Party

Host an online Halloween party where participants can join via video conferencing. Include Halloween-themed games, costume contests, spooky trivia, and more. Encourage attendees to donate to your nonprofit to join the virtual festivities. You can also collaborate with local entertainers, such as magicians or storytellers, to enhance the experience.

5 Heartfelt Valentine’s Day Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits to Spread Love and Support

Valentine's Day isn't just about chocolates and roses – it's also a fantastic opportunity for nonprofits to spread love and make a positive impact. This romantic holiday opens doors for creative fundraising ideas that resonate with couples and singles alike. By tapping into the emotional connections associated with Valentine's Day, nonprofits can raise funds while celebrating love, community, and a shared commitment to making a difference.

21. Valentine's Day Virtual Auction

Host an online auction featuring romantic and Valentine's Day-themed items and experiences. Collaborate with local businesses to donate items like romantic dinner packages, spa treatments, jewelry, or virtual date nights. Participants can place bids and compete for these items, with all proceeds going to your nonprofit.

22. Cupid's Couples Cooking Class

Organize a virtual cooking class where couples can learn to create a delicious Valentine's Day meal together. Partner with a local chef or culinary expert to guide participants through the cooking process. Charge a participation fee, and participants can enjoy an exceptional meal while supporting your cause.

23. Send-a-Surprise Serenade

Offer supporters the chance to send a personalized virtual serenade to their loved ones. Partner with local musicians or performers who can create and deliver short musical performances via video. Supporters can donate and provide a personal message to be included in the video.

24. Valentine's Day Flower Delivery

Collaborate with local florists to offer Valentine's Day flower deliveries. Supporters can purchase bouquets or arrangements online, and volunteers from your nonprofit can deliver them to recipients on Valentine's Day. A portion of the proceeds can go towards your fundraising goals.

25. Love Letter Fundraiser

Encourage supporters to express their feelings by writing love letters to their significant others, friends, or family members. Provide beautifully designed digital templates for the letters, and supporters can donate in exchange for access to these templates. This idea works well for both individuals and businesses looking to send heartfelt messages.

5 Easter Fundraising Ideas to Hop into Spring with Purpose

Easter is a time of renewal and joy, making it a perfect opportunity for heartwarming holiday fundraising ideas. From hosting lively Easter egg hunts to crafting themed bake sales featuring adorable bunny-shaped treats, the springtime festivities provide an ideal backdrop for raising funds. This season of hope and togetherness offers endless possibilities to inspire generosity and make a positive impact on those in need.

26. Easter Egg Hunt Fundraiser

Organize a fun and family-friendly Easter egg hunt in a local park or community center. Participants can pay an entry fee to join the hunt, and you can hide candy-filled eggs and special golden eggs with valuable prizes. Consider partnering with local businesses to donate prizes or sponsor the event. This can be a great way to bring the community together and raise funds for your cause

27. Easter Basket Auction

Collect and curate themed Easter baskets filled with goodies, such as chocolates, toys, crafts, and more. Display these baskets at a central location or host an online auction where people can place bids. The highest bidder for each basket wins, and all proceeds go towards your nonprofit's initiatives.

28. Bunny Fun Run

Organize a bunny-themed fun run or walk event where participants wear bunny ears, tails, or even full costumes. Choose a scenic route in your community and encourage participants to register and fundraise for the event. You can offer prizes for the best bunny costumes or fastest runners, and participants can seek sponsorships from friends and family.

29. Easter Bake Sale

Host a bake sale featuring Easter-themed treats such as decorated cookies, cupcakes with pastel frosting, and carrot-shaped cakes. You can set up a booth at a local market, outside a popular store, or even online. Be sure to promote your bake sale well in advance to attract a good crowd.

30. Virtual Pet Parade

Capitalize on the Easter theme by hosting a virtual pet parade where participants dress up their pets in creative Easter outfits. Pet owners can submit photos or videos of their dressed-up pets, and viewers can vote for their favorites by making donations. You can offer prizes for different categories like "Best Dressed Bunny" or "Most Creative Costume."

5 Saint Patrick's Day Fundraising Ideas to Shamrock Your Cause

As the world turns green to celebrate the Irish spirit on Saint Patrick's Day, your nonprofit can harness this festive energy for a meaningful cause. This holiday offers a unique opportunity to engage your community in creative and spirited fundraising endeavors. So, put on your green attire, gather your supporters, and get ready to weave a bit of magic into your fundraising efforts this Saint Patrick's Day with holiday fundraising ideas!

31. St. Patrick's Day Parade Float

 Participate in your local St. Patrick's Day parade by designing and decorating a colorful float representing your nonprofit's cause. Engage volunteers to march alongside the float, handing out flyers and collecting donations from the enthusiastic parade-goers.

32. Shamrock Shuffle Fun Run

Organize a Shamrock Shuffle fun run or walk event. Participants can wear green attire and accessories, and the route can be decorated with shamrocks and festive banners. Encourage participants to gather pledges, register with an entry fee, and offer prizes for top fundraisers.

33. Irish-Themed Trivia Night

Host an Irish-themed trivia night at a local venue or online. Create a range of fun and challenging questions about Ireland, St. Patrick's Day, and general knowledge. Participants can form teams and pay an entry fee to participate, with all proceeds going to your nonprofit.

34. Leprechaun Treasure Hunt

Organize a community treasure hunt with a leprechaun twist. Create clues and riddles that lead participants to different locations, and charge an entry fee for participation. Include green-themed prizes and engage local businesses to sponsor or contribute to the event.

35. Luck of the Irish Bake Sale

Invite bakers in your community to create Irish-inspired treats, such as green cupcakes, shamrock cookies, and soda bread. Set up a booth at a popular local spot, such as a farmers' market or shopping center, and sell the baked goods to raise funds for your nonprofit.

Embrace the Spirit of Giving Year-Round with These Holiday Fundraising Ideas

These holiday fundraising ideas for nonprofits cover a wide range of festivities, ensuring you'll find the perfect match for your organization's mission and supporters. Whether you aim to spread holiday cheer or make a difference in your community, these creative ideas will help you achieve your fundraising goals. Get ready to make this holiday season one to remember while making a positive impact through your nonprofit's efforts.

Feeling inspired by our 35 holiday fundraising ideas? It's time to turn that inspiration into action. Whether you're planning a heartwarming Thanksgiving thank-a-thon or a jolly Christmas cookie exchange, Event.Gives is here to help you bring your holiday fundraiser to life. With user-friendly tools, customizable templates, and seamless online registration and donation options, creating your event is as easy as spreading holiday cheer. Don't wait—start planning your next unforgettable holiday fundraiser with Event.Gives today!