Fundraising Game Ideas for Events and Campaigns

Fundraising games ideas are a fun and engaging way to raise money for a cause while creating a lively atmosphere that encourages participation and generosity. These games can be tailored for different age groups, event themes, and budget levels, making them highly versatile for schools, churches, non-profits, or community organizations. Popular options include classic carnival games such as ring toss, bean bag throw, or dunk tanks, where participants pay a small fee to play and win prizes.

More modern and interactive games like trivia nights, scavenger hunts, or game show-style competitions (e.g., “Minute to Win It”) can also generate excitement and healthy competition. Additionally, digital games such as virtual bingo, online raffles, or mobile-based challenges can be used for remote fundraising efforts. The key to successful fundraising games lies in simplicity, low-cost setup, and attractive incentives, all of which encourage higher participation and more donations while keeping the focus on fun and community involvement.

Fundraising Game Ideas

Spin the Wheel

Credit @The Fun Experts

Description: A colorful prize wheel offers instant rewards for a small donation. Each spin costs money, and every slice wins something (big or small).

How to Play:

• Set up a spinning wheel with labeled prize sections (e.g., candy, $5 voucher, mystery box).

• Charge a small fee per spin (e.g., $2).

• Player spins the wheel and wins the prize it lands on.

• Include “Jackpot” or “Double Spin” slots for extra excitement.

• Offer donated items or sponsor-funded prizes to keep costs low.

• Use music and lights to attract attention.

Balloon Pop Challenge

Credit @Keith Cremer

Description: Balloons filled with prize slips or “Try Again” notes are popped for a fee.

How to Play:

• Fill balloons with paper slips—some with prizes, others blank or with fun dares.

• Tape them on a wall or board.

• Each player pays to pop a balloon (e.g., $1–$3).

• They use a dart or pin to pop and claim what’s inside.

• Include grand prize notes to keep the excitement high.

• Safe supervision is important for younger participants.

Minute to Win It Games

Credit @TikTok

Description: Fast-paced, hilarious 60-second challenges. People donate to compete.

How to Play:

• Choose several 1-minute challenges (e.g., stack cups, cookie on face, tissue pull).

• Participants donate to enter ($2–$5).

• Time each participant with a stopwatch.

• Winners in each round earn a prize or bragging rights.

• Set up leaderboards for extra competitiveness.

• Multiple games keep players returning.

Treasure Hunt

Credit @Yumping

 

Description: A fun, clue-based game where players pay to find hidden items or solve a mystery.

How to Play:

• Design a scavenger hunt with clues and stations.

• Players pay to receive the first clue.

• Each clue leads to another location.

• First person/team to solve all clues and find the treasure wins.

• Offer prizes or certificates.

• Keep the hunt within a limited area for control and safety.

Pie in the Face

Credit @PhillyBurbs

Description: A hilarious classic. Donors pay to throw a whipped cream pie at willing volunteers.

How to Play:

• Get volunteers (teachers, local celebs, etc.) to participate.

• Set up a clean-up friendly zone.

• Each “throw” costs a set amount (e.g., $5).

• Use paper plates and whipped cream.

• Offer bonus throws for higher donations.

• Keep towels and water nearby for cleanup.

Duck Pond

Credit @Planet Entertainment

Description: A carnival-style game for kids where rubber ducks float in a pool with hidden numbers or colors.

How to Play:

• Label the bottom of ducks with numbers or symbols.

• Place them in a kiddie pool.

• Each play costs a small fee (e.g., $1).

• The child picks a duck to see if they win a prize.

• All ducks return for reuse.

• Include a mix of small toys and candy as prizes.

Trivia Tournament

Credit @Surrey Now-Leader

Description: Brainy fun that raises funds through team or individual entry fees.

How to Play:

• Create trivia questions in categories (sports, pop culture, history).

• Charge per team or individual (e.g., $10/team).

• Host a live event or online.

• Winners receive small prizes or a trophy.

• Add bonus rounds for fun.

• Offer snacks/drinks for extra fundraising.

Obstacle Course

Credit @Booster

Description: A physical challenge game great for schools or outdoor events.

How to Play:

• Set up a course with cones, ropes, hula hoops, etc.

• Each participant pays to run the course ($3–$5).

• Time each run and keep score.

• Offer prizes for fastest time or best effort.

• Encourage themed costumes for extra fun.

• Have volunteers to guide and ensure safety.

Jail & Bail

Credit @Sooke News Mirror

Description: Participants “arrest” friends or coworkers for fun, who must raise bail (donations) to be released.

How to Play:

• Volunteers “arrest” people using a funny warrant.

• The “prisoner” must raise a donation goal (e.g., $20) to be freed.

• Set up a mock jail cell or area.

• Great for offices, schools, or community events.

• Keeps donors engaged and entertained.

Wheelbarrow Race

Description: A silly race involving two-person teams (one as wheelbarrow, one as pusher).

How to Play:

• Set up a racecourse on grass or soft surface.

• Teams pay to enter the race.

• One player walks on hands while the other holds their legs.

• Fastest team wins a prize.

• Great for kids and teens.

• Offer multiple heats or themed rounds (e.g., superhero race).