Fall Fundraising Ideas That Work For Schools
Fall is one of the best seasons to kick off fundraising efforts. From lively events like fun runs and festivals to cozy indoor gatherings like bake sales and auctions, there’s something for everyone to be excited about. These seasonal ideas not only boost donations, but will also bring your community together for a great cause. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or PTA member, fall fundraising is a great way to bring the community together!
Fall Festival Or Carnival
A fall festival or carnival is a classic fundraiser that never goes out of style. With games, food booths, hayrides, costume contests, and seasonal activities like pumpkin decorating or a scarecrow contest, there’s something for everyone. Charge a small admission fee or sell tickets for individual activities and snacks. You can also invite local vendors or food trucks and have a portion of the proceeds go towards the fundraiser. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to raise money while building school spirit and bringing the community together.
Read-A-Thon
A Read-A-Thon is a great way to promote literacy while raising funds for your school. Students collect pledges from family and friends based on how many minutes or books they read over a set period—usually a week or two. It’s simple to organize, requires no upfront costs, and can be done entirely at school or from home. To boost excitement, offer small prizes or classroom incentives for participation and top readers.
Apple Picking Day
Turn a classic fall activity into a memorable fundraising event with a day of apple picking. Partner with a local orchard to host a school-wide outing where families can pick their own apples for a set donation or discounted group rate. A portion of the proceeds can go back to your school, and you can increase earnings by selling apple-themed treats like cider, donuts, or homemade pies. It’s a family-friendly event that celebrates the season and supports your school, while making lasting memories.
Fun Run
A Fun Run is an exciting, action-packed fundraiser that motivates students to get active while supporting their school. Participants collect pledges for every lap they run, or just by participating. You can customize the event like having it be a color run or costume run. This can be held at the school so it wouldn’t cost any money for a venue.
Online Or In-Person Silent Auction
Whether hosted at a fall festival or entirely online, a silent auction is a flexible way to raise funds for your school if people aren’t able to make it to the event in-person. Learn more about how to run a successful silent auction online in our blog.
For in-person events, display items with bid sheets and let the friendly competition begin! This interactive format creates excitement and encourages community members to connect in person, making it both a social and successful way to raise funds.
Movie Night
Host a movie night at your school to bring families together for a good cause. Choose a popular, family-friendly film and transform your gym or auditorium into a mini theater with popcorn, snacks, and comfy seating. Charge a small admission fee or sell tickets in advance. Consider adding a concession stand or raffle to increase your fundraisers profit. It’s an easy event to plan that fosters a welcoming community so everyone can have fun.
Teacher Dunk Tank
Bring laughs for everyone at your fundraiser with a teacher dunk tank! Students and families can take turns trying to dunk their favorite teachers or staff members by hitting a target that drops them into a tank of water. Charge for each throw or sell “dunk tickets” to raise funds. It’s a fun way to build school spirit and create memorable moments.
Candy-Grams
Sweeten up your fundraising with candy-gram sales! Students can purchase small treats or personalized notes to send to friends, teachers, or family members during special occasions like Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just because. Candy-grams add a personal touch that makes every recipient feel truly special.
Bake Sale
A bake sale is a classic and delicious way to raise funds for your school. Encourage students, families, and staff to donate homemade goodies like cookies, muffins, breads and cakes to sell. Allow people to set up a booth or table during school events and fundraisers. With low upfront costs and a sweet appeal, a bake sale is an easy way to raise funds while bringing everyone together over delicious treats.
Tips For A Successful School Fall Fundraiser
With cooler weather, festive holidays, and plenty of seasonal inspiration, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make your event a hit. Whether you’re planning a big festival or a bake sale, these tips will help you maximize participation, boost donations, and create a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Recruit Volunteers⎯Parent-teacher organizations and older students are great resources for staffing events.
Promote Everywhere⎯Use social media, newsletters, and community boards to spread the word. Make it easy to donate online for those who can't attend in person.
Be Transparent⎯Clearly communicate where the funds will go, whether it's new equipment, activities, scholarships, or something else.
Follow Up⎯After the event, thank participants and donors. Share photos and updates about the impact of their support and encourage them to participate in the next fundraiser.
Make A Difference With Your School’s Fall Fundraiser
Fundraising is more than about just collecting donations, but also about fostering community and creating memorable experiences. Make your fall school fundraiser effortless and profitable with our unique consignment auction packages! We handle the details so you can focus on rallying your community and maximizing donations. Contact us to learn how we can work together to start the school year off right by making a big difference at your fall fundraiser.