How to Run a Raffle Basket Fundraiser (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Run a Raffle Basket Fundraiser (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Run a Raffle Basket Fundraiser (Step-by-Step Guide)

Few things get people more excited at a fundraiser than the chance to win a basket packed with goodies. A raffle basket fundraiser is simple to set up, easy to run, and delivers a strong return with very little cost. Themed prizes create buzz, tickets sell themselves, and everyone goes home happy.


Why Raffle Baskets Work

  • Instant appeal – People can see the prize, not just imagine it.

  • Flexible themes – Spa night, sports, movie marathon, coffee lovers, BBQ kit… the options are endless.

  • High perceived value – A well-styled basket feels worth more than the individual items inside.

  • Easy for donors – Local businesses love to contribute products or gift cards for baskets.

This mix makes raffle baskets one of the most reliable add-ons at any community, school, or corporate fundraiser.


Step 1: Choose Your Themes

Start with 3–5 baskets. Fewer but better baskets usually perform stronger than too many small ones. Popular themes include:

  • Family Fun Night – board games, snacks, movie passes

  • Local Favorites – gift cards from restaurants or shops in your community

  • Pamper Yourself – spa items, candles, wine

  • Sports & Outdoors – gear, tickets, team swag

  • Gourmet Treats – coffee, chocolate, artisan foods

👉 Tip: Pick themes that match your audience. A school fundraiser crowd might love family games, while a gala audience may go for wine and spa baskets.


Step 2: Collect Donations

Ask local businesses, parents, and community supporters for items or gift cards. Position it as free advertising: their brand will be highlighted in front of everyone at the event.

Pro tip: Offer a “sponsor shoutout” from the stage or in the event program for each donor.


Step 3: Price & Sell Tickets

Bundle pricing works best:

  • 1 ticket = $5

  • 3 tickets = $10

  • 10 tickets = $20

Guests drop their tickets in the container for the basket they want to win. The more tickets they buy, the more chances they have — which means more money raised.


Step 4: Style the Baskets

Presentation matters. Wrap baskets in cellophane, add a bow, and display them in a high-traffic area with good lighting. Print a clear sign for each basket showing the theme, contents, and sponsor.


Step 5: Draw the Winners

Announce basket winners toward the end of the night, but before your big finale. This gives people time to drop in their last tickets and keeps excitement building.

Make the draw a moment of fun — invite a volunteer or child to pick the winning ticket and celebrate the winner on stage.


Pro Tips

  • Combine small donations into larger, themed baskets instead of giving away single items.

  • Create at least one “premium basket” to drive big-ticket interest.

  • Encourage online promotion by posting basket photos on social media before the event.

  • Use clear jars or boxes for tickets so people see participation building.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Too many baskets → audience spreads out their interest, lowering ticket sales.

  • Poor display → baskets tucked in a corner won’t get attention.

  • Generic themes → uninspired baskets don’t generate excitement.


Quick FAQ

Q: How many baskets should we have?
A: Three to five well-themed baskets is the sweet spot.

Q: Can we combine gift cards?
A: Absolutely — mix smaller cards into a “local favorites” basket.

Q: How much can we raise?
A: Small events often net $300–$800; larger galas can clear $2,000+.


The Bottom Line

A raffle basket fundraiser adds color, energy, and guaranteed profit to your event. It’s easy to organize, fun for guests, and a proven way to engage local sponsors.

For maximum results, pair your raffle baskets with headline entertainment like the Jesse Lewis Comedy Hypnosis Show — a show that fills seats, creates laughter, and ensures your raffle tickets fly.

Go back to the Fundraising Guidebook!