How to Host a Profitable and Successful Casino Night Fundraiser

Looking for a fundraising idea that’s sure to generate excitement and buzz? A casino night fundraiser could be a sure bet for success! Perfect for nonprofits, sports teams, booster clubs, and more, casino nights are a fun and engaging way to raise big money. But what’s the secret to dealing a winning hand and running a night to remember?

Whether you're setting goals, balancing budgets, picking the perfect venue, or choosing crowd-pleasing games, we've got all the aces you need to pull off a winning casino night.

Explore our step-by-step guide for maximizing your casino fundraiser night’s success—and learn how to keep the funds flowing afterward!

1. Set practical goals and a budget 

Every successful fundraiser starts with clear, realistic goals. What’s your big win for the night? Think beyond just the money—consider the action you want to inspire. Maybe it's raising $1,000 to send your community music group on a field trip or boosting awareness for your cause. 

When you know the stakes, you can play the game to win.

Besides establishing an overall goal, always factor in costs so you’re not just breaking even. Casino nights will have some expenses, such as snacks, rentals, or decorations. 

Let’s go back to our previous example: If your goal is to raise $1,000 for a field trip and your expenses are $500, aim for a $1,500 target.

2. Figure out event logistics 

Aside from setting realistic expectations and goals, you’ll also need to plan the logistics of a casino night fundraiser. One of the first things you’ll need to consider is venue selection. How many people do you expect to attend? Do you need a lot of tables for games or food? Choose a location with plenty of space for people to move about without feeling crowded.

Vet rules and guidelines

Before you roll the dice on your casino night fundraiser, make sure you’re playing by the book.

Many states have specific regulations for hosting gaming events, especially when nonprofits are involved. These rules might cover everything from licensing requirements and prize restrictions to how proceeds are handled. Researching these legal guidelines isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential for your event’s success and legitimacy. Like Reddit user r/shadyhornet says, "Be 3000% certain of state-level compliance for gambling licensure and activities allowed for non-profit organizations at a fundraiser."

Determine how you'll fundraise during the event

Additionally, many states require you to use funny or fake money with no real value for the games. As such, you’ll need another way to raise funds for your needs. Admission prices are one common option, allowing you to help cover expenses and earn donations. You could also charge for snacks or drinks or add donation boxes to encourage guests to share.

Nailing down the logistics—from permits and venue details to funny money and casino night fundraising strategies—will make planning your casino night a breeze.

3. Hire vendors and find sponsors 

While some event materials can be sourced yourself, bringing in outside vendors or sponsors can make your casino night shine. Here are a few key areas where professional help can take your event to the next level:

• Catering—If you plan to have more than standard snacks and drinks that you can buy at the grocery store, seek out a professional caterer or delivery service.
  
  
• Decor, furniture, and games—Many companies offer rentals or affordable decor, games, tables, and chairs for fundraising events like this. If you want something more elaborate or are in a time crunch, seeking help from these professionals can take the work off your plate.
  
  
• Casino party companies—Want a hassle-free event? Consider hiring a professionally licensed casino party company. These experts can handle everything from décor and game rentals to coordinating experienced dealers and managing logistics.

Also, consider bringing sponsors on board to help cover the costs of vendors or materials. Many businesses are eager to support community events in exchange for promotional opportunities.

4. Choose games, prizes, and refreshments

Your offerings at your casino night fundraiser can make or break the atmosphere, so choose wisely.

From food and drinks to prizes and game choices, each element should enhance the fun while keeping your guests engaged and excited to give. Here are some helpful tips for making the best selections:

• Game options – Popular games for casino night events include Texas Hold ’Em, Blackjack, Poker, Craps, and Roulette. You can buy, borrow, or rent the supplies for the best gameplay experience, regardless of which games you choose.
  
  
• Refreshments – Decide which route you will take for food and drinks (as suggested previously). You may opt for a catered meal, appetizers, buffet, or mocktails. Finger foods or light snacks are a go-to choice for casino nights.
  
  
• Prizes – Depending on the rules in your state, you may be allowed to offer small prizes in exchange for participating in the themed event. For example, you could offer branded items, inexpensive prizes, or gift cards.

Again, your choices and how you get the necessary materials will be important to your budget and fundraising goals.

5. Decide on a theme or dress code 

While a dress code isn’t mandatory for casino night fundraisers, it can definitely amp up the excitement and create a more immersive experience.

For example, you can encourage guests to wear their fanciest clothes or Vegas-inspired outfits. If the fundraising night has a specific theme, you could set a dress code to match—like an ‘80s dance party or James Bond chic. 

6. Promote your casino night fundraiser 

Promotion is key to ensuring your casino night fundraiser is a hit. You should start early to give potential guests time to mark their calendars or RSVP.

To market a casino fundraiser, use a mix of channels, including:

• Social media
• Newsletters
• Posters
• Emails
• Newspapers
• Local radio stations

No matter what you choose, make sure to include the date and time, ticket cost, the cause, and contact information. 

Earn big money—even after casino night ends

Now that you know how to host a casino night fundraiser, consider adding RaiseRight to your toolbox for the rest of the year! Our program makes raising funds for your organization, team, or group simple—any time, any day.

Here’s how it works:

• Enroll your organization in a RaiseRight program—it's free!
• Add participants to your group.
• Shop online or buy physical and eGift cards for hundreds of popular brands that you know and love.
• Earn funds for your cause with every purchase—up to 20% back!

RaiseRight is the perfect complement to event-based fundraisers. Best of all, you don’t need to ask your supporters to invest extra time or spend additional money from their own pockets. Just shop and dine as you normally do, and let the earnings flow in! It's that simple.