Try These 5 Unique Movie Night Fundraiser Ideas

Movie night fundraisers are a classic crowd-pleaser, effortlessly blending entertainment and community spirit. But how can you turn this feel-good fundraising idea into a financial blockbuster for your cause?

While movie nights are known for their low overhead and universal appeal, the key to success is maximizing every opportunity to raise funds. A little creativity can turn your event into a revenue-generating masterpiece!

Below, discover five innovative ways to boost your earnings during a movie night fundraiser—plus expert tips to make your event unforgettable.

Lights, camera, fundraising!

While admission prices will be a significant part of raising money at a movie night, there are plenty of additional ways to boost your profits.

Between refreshments, games, and contests, you can choose from various options to elevate the event—and your earnings. Popular movie night fundraiser ideas include:

• Upgraded or bundled ticket packages
• Pre-show activities
• Refreshments
• Donations
• Merchandise sales

Let's dive into each of these ideas below. 

Upgraded or bundled ticket packages

Offer irresistible ticket packages for guests before the event or at the door. For example, you can allow attendees to upgrade their tickets to a "VIP" tier featuring preferred seating or a food or drink ticket.

You may also opt to offer discounts for family or group tickets. For example, you can discount those who buy a set number of tickets in one go, helping them save a few dollars while you still earn the funds. 

Pre-show activities 

Why not turn your movie night fundraiser into a fun-filled evening? Adding extra activities will keep families and community members engaged and create more opportunities to boost your funds.

Activities and games to consider include:

• Raffles
• Trivia
• Photo booths
• Bean bag toss
• Karaoke
• Costume contests
• Ring toss
• Bounce house
• Arcade games

If you charge a small fee for these activities, you can recoup the cost, continue raising funds for your cause, and delight attendees. 

Refreshments 

Who doesn’t want to munch on popcorn or candy during a film? Offering concessions to movie-goers for a small fee can help you earn more money during the fundraiser. You may opt for easy-to-make, affordable foods such as:

• Nachos
• Pizza
• Soda
• Pretzels
• Chips
• Hot dogs
• Hamburgers

You could also try unique options like cake and ice cream, snow cones, or smoothies. When selecting refreshments, consider what your audience may enjoy and the overhead costs.

Donations

While the admission price and refreshments are a great starting point, don’t stop there—keep the momentum going throughout the film. Set up donation boxes or jars for people to deposit cash or change as they enjoy the show.

You can also opt for virtual giving through QR codes or text messages, where people can privately donate whatever amount they choose.

Merchandise sales

Selling merchandise is another lucrative way to raise extra money during the event. Offering branded items—like T-shirts, mugs, or tote bags—creates a tangible connection to your cause while giving attendees something to remember the event by. Plus, it’s a win-win for raising funds and promoting your organization.

You can also offer other items that relate to the movie’s theme or capture the imaginations of children attending your event, such as:

• Movie posters
• Costumes or accessories
• Pinwheels
• Fidget toys
• Glow sticks or necklaces
• Swirly straws
• Sticker sets

If you find low-cost merchandise and buy it in bulk, you’ll likely be able to profit from it. Plus, these items are plenty of fun for the family. 

More strategies for movie night fundraiser success 

Now that you have ideas about how to raise more funds during the event, how can you ensure it goes off without a hitch? To make your film night successful, consider logistics, budget, and licensing. 

Logistics 

Secure a venue for your movie showing as far in advance as possible. Also, consider whether you want the fundraiser to be indoors or outdoors.

Local parks or outside areas at schools and churches often work well but may be derailed with the arrival of unexpected rainfall. In this case, check the weather forecast regularly and arrange a plan B location.

You might also consider partnering with a local movie theater or drive-in. 

Budget 

You’ll want to make the most of your budget to control expenses and maximize earnings. Plan to include the costs of refreshments, equipment rentals, venue, and staff. Then, consider food, merchandise, and admission prices to determine potential profits.

Seek sponsorships from local businesses or restaurants to help you fund the event. They may offer money you can use toward your expenses or in-kind donations, like food or raffle prizes. 

Movie licensing 

After considering your expected audience or event theme, the next essential step in choosing a film is ensuring you have the license to show it. These are popular places to look for them:

• Criterion Pictures
• Swank Motion Pictures
• Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (MPLC)

These licenses are necessary for any public film showing, so you must know how to secure one and fit it into your budget. 

Fundraise like a star with RaiseRight 

Movie night fundraisers are a fun and exciting way to raise money—and RaiseRight can help you soar even further. Adding RaiseRight to your strategy helps ensure your group earns funds year-round. Here’s how it works:

• Enroll your organization in a RaiseRight program
• Add participants to the group
• Shop online or buy gift cards from hundreds of popular brands
• Earn funds for your cause with every purchase—up to 20%! 

With this no-selling fundraiser, you can continuously earn money year-round—24/7, 365 days a year. You can even earn money during movie nights by using RaiseRight gift cards or online shopping to purchase supplies for pre-show activities, refreshments, and merchandise.