45 Innovative Holiday Fundraisers
By Colin Hunter on
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The holiday season brings a special kind of energy that makes fundraising feel different. It’s a time when people are more open to giving and eager to lend a helping hand.
This year, why not break away from the usual plans and try something new? There are countless creative Christmas fundraising ideas that step outside the box and can add excitement to your next holiday fundraiser.
Did you know that nearly 31% of all annual giving in the U.S. happens in December, and 28% of nonprofits raise as much as 50% of their funding during this month. It’s important to shake things up to stand out from the competition. (Source)
Let’s explore some fresh ideas that could make a real difference this holiday season.
1. Holiday Light Show Tour
Imagine the enchantment of driving around the neighborhood, surrounded by homes aglow like a winter wonderland. Now, let’s turn that magic into a memorable fundraising event!
Add some hot cocoa for a festive touch, and it becomes more than just a drive—it’s an experience.
Here’s how you can make it a great Christmas fundraising idea:
- Rent a bus and plan a route that includes all the iconic light displays in your area.
- Charge tickets for the guided tour. Set different prices for adults and children.
- Offer hot cocoa or holiday treats on board for an extra fee, or include them in the ticket price for more appeal.
2. Christmas Tree Recycling Service
After the holidays, many people are left wondering what to do with their Christmas trees. Why not offer a helpful solution with a Christmas tree recycling service? It’s eco-friendly and provides a hassle-free way for families to dispose of their trees responsibly.
- Promote your service as a convenient way to recycle trees.
- Ask for a suggested donation from each household you pick up from.
- Partner with a local recycler to handle the tree disposal or repurposing.
This initiative not only supports your fundraising goals but also helps the environment, making it a win-win for everyone involved!
3. Snowman Building Competition
Do you have snow? Then it’s time to organize a fun snowman-building competition for your community! It’s a chance for kids and adults alike to get outside and have some creative fun.
Participants can build anything from classic snowmen to unique snow sculptures, making it a holiday fundraiser that brings everyone together.
- Charge an entry fee for teams or individuals to join the competition.
- Give prizes for categories like "Most Creative" or "Tallest Snowman" to encourage participation.
- Sell snacks and hot drinks to keep spectators warm and entertained as they cheer on the builders
4. Christmas Karaoke
Who doesn't love belting out holiday tunes, even if it's off-key? Hosting a Christmas Karaoke night could be just what your community needs for a fun Christmas fundraiser.
Find a local hall or venue that’s up for hosting, and get ready for a night full of laughter and music.
- Charge a small entry fee to join the fun—either as a singer or as a spectator.
- Offer holiday-themed drinks and snacks for sale, which can be a great way to add to the fundraising total.
- Add a prize for the best (or most spirited!) performance to encourage participation.
5. Polar Plunge
Ready for a thrill? The Polar Plunge invites brave participants to jump into freezing cold water in the middle of winter—all for a fantastic Christmas charity idea. This exhilarating event is sure to get people talking and can help bring in more donations.
- Sponsorships: Encourage participants to gather sponsors who pledge donations for their daring plunge.
- Safe Location: Partner with a local pool or lake that’s suitable for a winter dip.
- Warm Up: Offer hot drinks and warm towels to participants afterward, either included in their entry or for a small additional donation.
6. Santa Run
How about getting everyone moving with a Santa Run? Participants dress up as Santa or elves and jog through a fun, holiday-themed course. This lighthearted event is sure to attract both runners and families.
Here’s how you to maximize your fundraising:
- Entry Fee: Charge an entry fee for all participants, and consider offering family discounts.
- Festive Prizes: Award prizes for categories like “Most Festive Costume” or “Fastest Santa.”
- Holiday-themed Refreshments: Sell treats like hot cocoa or cookies to raise additional funds while keeping everyone cozy.
7. Elf-for-a-Day Service
The holidays can be hectic, so why not lend a helping hand while raising funds?
Set up an Elf-for-a-Day Service, where volunteers help with tasks like gift wrapping, decorating, or running quick errands. It’s a helpful way to spread holiday cheer while supporting your cause.
- Ask for a donation in exchange for each task an “elf” helps with.
- Promote the service locally—it’s great for elderly residents or busy parents.
- Get local businesses involved by offering their staff as volunteers or promoting the service.
8. Letters from Santa
Bring some magic into the season by sending personalized letters from Santa to children. Parents will love the idea of surprising their kids with a letter straight from the North Pole, and it’s an easy way to fundraise during the holidays.
- Ask for a suggested donation for each letter sent.
- Make the letters personal by including details about the child’s recent achievements or their holiday wishes.
- Advertise online and through local schools or community groups to reach as many families as possible.
9. Holiday Mystery Box Auction
Everyone loves a good mystery, especially during the holidays. Create festive-themed mystery boxes filled with small gifts, treats, or holiday-themed surprises and auction them off without revealing the contents.
- Collect small donations from local businesses to fill the boxes.
- Host an online or in-person auction where people bid on the boxes without knowing what’s inside.
- Set a minimum bid for each box to ensure you cover costs and raise funds.
- Use BetterWorld’s Free Online Auction Software to host the auction for FREE and keep all the funds you raise!
10. Candy Cane Hunt
Imagine an Easter egg hunt but for candy canes! Organize a Candy Cane Hunt in a local park or school, and watch kids (and maybe adults, too!) have a blast searching for hidden treats.
It’s a simple but fun holiday fundraiser that brings people together.
- Charge a small fee to participate, with different age groups hunting in separate areas.
- Offer prizes for those who find the most candy canes.
- Sell hot drinks or snacks to parents and participants during the event.
11. Gingerbread House Contest
Get your community’s creative juices flowing with a Gingerbread House Contest!
Participants can decorate their own gingerbread houses, and you can make it a fun family event. It’s one of those Christmas fundraising ideas that bring people of all ages together for some festive fun.
- Charge an entry fee and provide all the decorating materials.
- Award prizes for categories like “Most Creative” or “Most Festive” gingerbread house.
- Sell extra decorating kits for those who want to participate at home.
12. Holiday Pet Parade
What could be cuter than pets in holiday outfits? Host a Holiday Pet Parade and invite everyone to dress up their furry friends in holiday costumes.
It’s adorable and a great holiday fundraising idea that engages the whole community.
- Charge an entry fee for each pet in the parade.
- Offer prizes for categories like “Best Dressed” or “Funniest Outfit.”
- Sell holiday treats for pets and humans to raise more funds.
13. Christmas Market
Why not create a space for local artisans and vendors to showcase and sell their goods? Everyone is looking for gifts this time of year, a Christmas Market gives people a chance to shop locally while also supporting your cause. This event helps bring out the community spirit while supporting the local businesses.
- Charge vendors a small fee for booth space.
- Encourage local artists to sell handmade gifts, decorations, and baked goods.
- Sell raffle tickets for a chance to win holiday-themed baskets donated by vendors.
14. Gift of Warmth Drive
The holidays are about giving, and what better way to give back than by helping those in need?
Organize a Gift of Warmth Drive where people can donate winter clothing items in exchange for a small treat like hot cocoa. It’s a perfect Christmas charity idea for your nonprofit.
- Encourage donations of winter gear like hats, scarves, and gloves.
- Offer a hot cocoa or a small gift in return for each donation.
- Partner with a local shelter to distribute the collected items.
15. Virtual Christmas Concert
A Virtual Christmas Concert can be a great way to spread holiday cheer without the need for an in-person event. Bring in local musicians or school choirs and stream the concert online.
It’s a perfect Christmas fundraiser for those who love festive music.
- Charge for virtual tickets to attend the concert from home.
- Encourage viewers to donate during the performance.
- Partner with local musicians or schools to help bring in talent and audience.
- Host your event with Free Virtual Fundraising Event Platform by BetterWorld! Request a Demo Today.
To get the best of your this holiday fundraising season, read our guide on 10 Effective Strategies For Holiday Fundraising Success!
16. Virtual Santa Visits
Let’s bring Santa to the kids without them leaving the house. Organize Virtual Santa Visits where families can book a one-on-one or small group video call with Santa.
It’s a fun way to bring holiday magic directly into homes while supporting your nonprofit.
- Charge a fee for each video call session.
- Personalize the experience by asking parents for a few details about their child in advance.
- Offer a recording of the call for an extra donation so parents can keep the memory.
17. Holiday Bingo Night
Who doesn't love a fun game of bingo, especially when it’s sprinkled with holiday cheer?
Host a Holiday Bingo Night in your community or online, complete with festive prizes and decorations. It’s a simple yet effective way to engage people of all ages.
- Sell bingo cards to participants for a small fee.
- Get local businesses to donate prizes, making the event more enticing.
- Sell additional cards to boost donations, especially for those eager to win.
18. Gift Wrapping Stations
Gift wrapping can be stressful for many during the holiday rush. Set up Gift Wrapping Stations at a local mall or community center, offering to wrap gifts for a donation.
This useful service takes away the hassle while raising funds.
- Ask for donations based on the number or size of gifts wrapped.
- Partner with malls or stores to promote the service to shoppers.
- Offer different wrapping styles and festive decorations to encourage higher donations.
19. Seasonal Wreaths Sale
Nothing says holiday spirit like a festive wreath on the door. Organize a Seasonal Wreath Sale where you sell handmade wreaths. It’s not just a fun craft project but also a perfect Christmas fundraising idea.
- Host a wreath-making event where volunteers help make the wreaths.
- Sell wreaths at local events, markets, or even online.
- Take pre-orders to manage materials and avoid waste.
20. Holiday Raffle
A Holiday Raffle is a tried and true, simple but effective Christmas fundraiser.
Collect a few attractive prizes—maybe a holiday hosting gift basket or some donated gift cards—and sell raffle tickets to your community.
- Sell tickets online and in person to reach as many people as possible.
- Ask local businesses for prize donations to keep costs low.
- Announce winners during a community event or online to keep people engaged.
- Use BetterWorld’s Free Online Raffle Software for a hassle-free experience!
21. Online Donation Drives
Running an Online Donation Drive is one of the easiest Christmas fundraising ideas for nonprofits. With everyone in the spirit of giving, it's the perfect time to ask your supporters to make a difference from the comfort of their homes.
Make it easy for people to share, and don’t forget to use warm, inviting language. You can share the campaign on social media to reach a wider audience.
- Create a clear goal for your donation drive and communicate its purpose.
- Use social media to spread the word and encourage donations.
- Offer incentives for certain donation amounts, like a shout-out or a small gift.
- Boost your fundraising with BetterWorld’s Online Fundraising & Donation Software. Keep all the funds you raise with unlimited use! Sign Up today to see how it can transform your holiday fundraising.
22. Social Media Challenges
People love a good challenge, especially when it’s for a worthy cause during the holidays. Create a fun social media challenge that connects with your mission.
For example, invite participants to don their favorite ugly holiday sweater and post a picture, encouraging their friends to join in and donate. These challenges make fundraising fun and create a ripple effect that can spread quickly.
- Set up a hashtag for the challenge to keep track of participation.
- Ask for a small donation to enter the challenge and nominate others.
- Share participant videos to encourage more people to get involved.
23. Holiday Decorations Sale
Everyone loves decorating their homes for Christmas, which can be a perfect Christmas fundraiser. Your nonprofit could sell or create unique decorations—maybe handmade ornaments, wreaths, or even customized holiday signs.
You could also team up with local artisans for an added touch. People love knowing that the decorations they are buying not only look great but also help a good cause.
- Make decorations as a group activity with volunteers.
- Sell items online, at community events, or at a holiday fair.
- Take custom orders for personalized decorations to add extra value.
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24. Holiday Treats Bake Sale
The Holidays were made for treats. Turn this season of indulgence into a successful holiday fundraiser, with a Bake Sale. Whether it's cookies, pies, or holiday fudge, encourage your supporters to pre-order delicious treats so they can give as gifts or enjoy together with their families.
Add a holiday recipe card to each order to add even more value to the item.
- Ask volunteers to bake and contribute festive treats.
- Set up a booth at a busy location like a community center, school or holiday market.
- Offer special holiday packaging so treats can be given as gifts.
25. Scented Candle Fundraiser
Scented candles make wonderful gifts, especially around Christmas when people are looking to cozy up their homes. Partner with a local candle company or make your own holiday-themed scents like "Winter Pine" or "Cinnamon Spice."
- Offer candles in a variety of holiday scents.
- Create a “bundle” option for those who want to buy multiple as gifts.
- Use social media to highlight each scent and share stories about how the funds will make an impact.
26. Winter Wonderland Carnival
Why not turn your local park or community center into a winter wonderland and invite everyone to join in on the holiday fun? A Winter Wonderland Carnival is a festive way to bring the community together while raising money.
Think of it as a mini fair but with a holiday twist—snowflake decorations, holiday music, and cozy treats.
- Set up game booths like ring toss, snowball throwing contests, or even "pin the nose on the snowman."
- Offer holiday snacks for a small fee—hot cocoa, popcorn, and gingerbread cookies.
- Charge a small entry fee to boost donations or add a raffle with holiday-themed prizes.
27. Ugly Sweater Party
You know that funny sweater hidden in the back of your closet? Now's the perfect time to dust it off!
Hosting an Ugly Sweater Party is one of those holiday fundraising ideas that can bring a lot of laughter and support.
- Sell tickets to the event and have a contest for the ugliest sweater with a small prize.
- Consider adding a photo booth where guests can take fun pictures and pay for printed copies.
- Include a "most creative sweater" vote and encourage donations as votes, raising more funds along the way.
28. Meet With Santa
Meeting Santa is always a good idea! Set up a "Meet with Santa" event. Where Santa is the families will follow to generate funds for a good cause. It is a classic Christmas fundraiser
- Have a local volunteer dress as Santa and set up a cozy corner for kids to meet him.
- Offer photo packages for a donation—parents will love capturing the holiday memory.
- Set up a hot cocoa or cookie station nearby, where each treat is sold for a small donation.
29. Candy Cane Delivery Service
Spread some holiday cheer with a Candy Cane Delivery Service! It's simple, effective, and great for connecting people—perfect as a Christmas fundraising idea. This works great in a school or tight night community.
- Sell candy canes with personalized messages and have volunteers deliver them.
- Set up a station at an event or online for orders, where people can choose messages and recipients.
- Charge a small fee for each delivery.
30. New Year's Resolution Wall
With the new year just around the corner, creating a New Year's Resolution Wall can be a meaningful and unique way to raise funds. Invite people to share their resolutions on a large board displayed at a community spot.
- Charge a small donation for each resolution added to the wall.
- Offer to write the resolutions on colorful cards for added personalization.
- You could even hold a raffle and pick a resolution to win a fun prize.
31. Seasonal E-card Creation Service
Have you ever thought about offering a personal touch for the holidays? A seasonal e-card creation service could be just what you need.
People love to send thoughtful messages during the holidays, and custom-designed electronic cards are a great way for them to share the joy while supporting a good cause. It's one of those Christmas charity ideas that can really connect with people.
- Create different e-card designs, from funny ones to more heartfelt messages.
- Charge a small fee for each personalized card.
- Consider offering bulk pricing for families or businesses that want to send out multiple cards.
32. Virtual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Bring some festive cheer to everyone, even if they can't be there in person. Set up a live tree lighting ceremony online and let people join from the comfort of their homes.
Adding some music or a heartwarming story makes it even more meaningful.
- Encourage viewers to donate during the event. You could add a live tracker to show how close you are to your fundraising goal.
- Include local performers or speakers who can encourage donations with personal stories.
- Offer sponsorship opportunities for local businesses to get involved.
33. Holiday Movie Night
Hosting a holiday movie night is always a crowd-pleaser. Pick some classic holiday films and book a local venue. People love to gather with their families and friends to enjoy seasonal favorites.
You could even make it an outdoor event if the weather's nice! This holiday fundraiser will surely bring a large crowd to support your cause.
- Charge an admission fee for attendees.
- Sell festive snacks like popcorn, hot cocoa, and holiday cookies.
- Ask local businesses if they would like to sponsor the event in exchange for some advertising.
34. Cookie Decorating Workshop
Everyone loves cookies during the holiday season, right? A cookie decorating workshop is a perfect way to bring families together while raising funds for your cause.
Set up a space with plenty of supplies—frosting, sprinkles, you name it!
- Charge a participation fee that covers the cost of supplies and contributes to your cause.
- Sell extra kits for those who want to take the fun home.
- Get local bakers involved for some extra expertise or even donate supplies.
35. Poinsettia Sale
Poinsettias are the big beautiful flowers you see blooming boldly around the holidays. Hosting a Poinsettia sale is a great Christmas fundraising idea.
These beautiful plants are often used to decorate homes and offices, so selling them is a natural fit for a holiday fundraiser. It's an easy and festive way to bring in funds while offering something that people already want for their holiday decorations.
- Partner with a local nursery to get a bulk discount on the plants.
- Set up a sales booth at community events or promote it online.
- Offer delivery options to make it more convenient for people to buy.
36. Christmas Ornament Exchange
Consider hosting an ornament exchange to bring people together and raise funds. This is one innovative Christmas fundraising idea that can help you engage the community for a cause.
Ask participants to bring a handmade ornament to share, and add a small fee to join in on the fun. You could even mix things up by including a mini-auction for unique ornaments that stand out.
- Set an entry fee for everyone who wants to take part.
- Arrange a mini-auction for the more unique or artistic ornaments.
- Make it a festive event with snacks and music to keep everyone engaged.
37. Reindeer Run Obstacle Course
Want to get folks moving while raising money? A Reindeer Run Obstacle Course is perfect for adding some fun and fitness to the holiday season. It can be a great holiday fundraiser to engage participants of all ages while supporting your cause.
Design a holiday-themed obstacle course with Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and plenty of festive challenges. Costumes are always welcome—the goofier, the better!
- Charge participants an entry fee.
- Offer prizes for the best costumes or fastest times.
- Invite local businesses to sponsor different obstacles for added funds.
38. Gift Basket Silent Auction
Create some holiday-themed gift baskets and host a silent auction. Each basket can have a different theme—like a cozy night in, baking goodies, or holiday decorations.
You can hold the auction during a community gathering or an existing event. It’s a simple but effective way to get people excited and raise funds.
- Assemble themed gift baskets with donated items.
- Set up the auction at a community event or online.
- Encourage participants to bid by highlighting the value of each basket.
39. Festive Photoshoot
Set up a holiday-themed photoshoot that’s perfect for families, friends, or even pets. You can create a cozy backdrop with decorations like fake snow, garlands, or a Santa chair.
Hire a local photographer or use a photo booth setup. Charge people per photo session, and they’ll walk away with lasting memories, all while supporting your cause.
- Charge per session or per photo package.
- Offer different backdrops or props to make it special.
- Promote the photoshoot as a great opportunity for holiday cards.
40. Caroling for a Cause
There’s something about holiday carols that brings a smile to everyone's face.
Gather a group of singers and spread joy throughout the community by caroling for donations. It’s a perfect holiday fundraiser to connect with others while raising money for your nonprofit.
To make it more festive, you can even get creative with holiday costumes or involve local youth groups.
- Collect donations from those enjoying the caroling.
- Partner with local businesses to match donations.
- End the night with a hot cocoa social for the carolers to keep spirits high.
41. Holiday Fashion Show
Ever thought about turning the holiday spirit into a runway spectacle?
Hosting a Holiday Fashion Show can be a fantastic way to raise funds this Christmas. Imagine local models showcasing festive attire—from sparkling New Year's outfits to the classic ugly Christmas sweaters.
This Christmas fundraising idea can become a beloved annual tradition for your nonprofit!
- Sell tickets to the event, offering VIP options for prime seating.
- Partner with local boutiques or designers to feature their clothing lines.
- Auction off the showcased outfits or offer them for sale after the show.
- Provide refreshments for additional donations, like holiday-themed snacks and drinks.
42. Polar Express Pajama Party
All aboard! Transform your venue into a winter wonderland and invite families to a Polar Express Pajama Party they'll never forget. Kids arrive in their coziest pajamas, ready for a magical journey while watching "The Polar Express."
Families will cherish this enchanting holiday fundraiser, and you'll raise funds for a great cause.
- Charge an admission fee for each child, with optional donations from parents.
- Serve hot chocolate and cookies.
- Set up interactive stations, like a bell-making craft or a photo booth with festive props.
43. Recycled Decorations Workshop
Why not help the community get crafty and make some eco-friendly holiday decorations?
Hosting a recycled decorations workshop can be a hit, especially with people who are leaning towards sustainability. You could gather materials like old newspapers, cans, or even spare ribbons and teach people how to transform them into festive ornaments.
The beauty of this Christmas fundraising idea is that it turns items that are often thrown away into charming holiday decor.
- Charge a workshop fee for participation.
- Offer a small selection of completed decorations for sale to boost donations.
- Encourage attendees to donate extra supplies or money for future events.
44. Custom Calendars
With the New Year just around the corner, everyone will need a new calendar. Create a custom calendar that features beautiful local photos and personalized pictures or highlights your nonprofit’s achievements and impact throughout the year.
People love having a calendar that feels personal or shows the change their donations are making. It’s a great way to remind supporters of their role in your work all year round.
- Sell these custom calendars at community events or online as part of your Christmas fundraising ideas.
- Offer to personalize them with family names or messages for an extra fee.
- Bundle calendars with other small items like greeting cards to increase sales.
45. Cider Tasting
Who doesn't love cider during the holidays? You can include both hard ciders for adults and kid-friendly apple ciders, making it a family-friendly Christmas fundraising idea.
Set up tasting stations, offer a little background on each cider, and give everyone a chance to relax and enjoy the holiday spirit. You could even partner with a local cidery to provide the drinks and help support small businesses in your community.
- Charge an entry fee to participate in the tasting.
- Sell bottles of the featured ciders with a portion of proceeds going to your cause.
- Add a raffle for a special cider basket to boost your holiday fundraising efforts.

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