Fall fundraising ideas
The fall season is the perfect time to introduce spooky themes and cozy, seasonal delights into your fundraising strategy. From apple bobbing and pie eating to photo walks and bonfires, we have all the fall fundraiser ideas you need to rally your community and raise more than ever this autumn.
Costume contest
Field goal derby
Lend a helping hand
In order to streamline the process and keep track of contributions, create custom labels for different donation amounts on a special fundraising page or donation form (e.g. $50 = 2 volunteer hours).
Alumni night
Pajama run
Social media challenge
Learn more social media fundraising tips to take your efforts to the next level.
5k walk/run
Halloween costume run
At the end, award the winners of the race, the teams or individuals who raised the most, and, of course, the best dressed with special prizes.
Mascot showdown
Pumpkin Games
50-yard-line movie night
Mini-golf tournament
Flower bulb sale
Movie night
Use Givebutter’s fundraising event tools like online ticket sales, mobile app check-ins, and in-person payments to make it easier for you and your supporters.
College movers for hire
Set up a donation form with pre-set donation amounts and customized labels that show how much support they’re getting, like $50 = 2 hours of moving support.
One-day giving event
Keep your supporters invested in your progress with a goal bar and campaign updates that highlight milestones, matching gifts, and special shout-outs throughout the day.
Holiday-grams
Customize your donation form with custom fields to collect all the details you need—such as the recipient’s name, a personalized, heartfelt holiday message, and where the gram should be delivered.
Carnival night
Haunted house
Cookie-decorating extravaganza
To make your fundraising event even sweeter, bring in a cookie-decorating expert to show off some sweet tips and tricks.
Raise some dough with cookie dough
Family photo day
Gift wrapping
Frequently asked questions
What are the most popular fall fundraisers?
Fall fundraising event ideas that bring local community members together are always popular. Plan family-friendly events like a pumpkin patch, fall festival, chili cook-off, or haunted house to draw in the crowds and raise awareness (and funds) for your good cause.
What are the most profitable fall or autumn fundraising ideas?
If you’re raising money to hit a lofty fundraising goal, sell tickets to an exclusive, high-priced event like a gala or harvest dinner party with a silent auction. Or, charge an entrance fee for a kids vs. grownups football game. Be sure to ask local businesses to support your efforts!
You can also start a fun social media challenge and peer-to-peer fundraising campaign to encourage friends and family to join in on the action.
How do I plan and promote my fall fundraiser?
Planning your next fall fundraiser just got easier, thanks to our handy event planning checklist. Follow our guide for step-by-step help, from idea brainstorming and event promotion all the way through to hosting your event debrief.
Which are the easiest fall fundraisers to host?
Fall-themed fundraising ideas like a haunted house or Oktoberfest are tons of fun, but they also take a lot of planning. If you’re looking for easy fall fundraising ideas, our favorite picks include hosting a pumpkin carving contest, an apple bobbing stall, or a nature photography walk.
Subscribe to
The Butter Brief
Get fundraising ideas, tips, and free resources right in your inbox
Givebutter helps you turn ideas into impact
Subscribe to
The Butter Brief
Get fundraising ideas, tips, and free resources right in your inbox