The holiday season is a big deal for fundraising. People are feeling generous, spending time with family, and looking for ways to give back. It’s the perfect time to rally your community and raise money for a cause that matters. But we know, it can also feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What actually works?
That's why we’ve put together this guide. It's full of fundraising ideas that are simple, doable, and fun for your team and supporters. Whether you're working with a small nonprofit, a school, or just a group of passionate volunteers, you'll find something here that fits.
Holiday-themed fundraising events that bring people together
When it comes to December, people are looking for a reason to celebrate. A great way to raise money and bring folks together is by hosting a holiday-themed event. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just thoughtful and fun.
Try organizing a winter trivia night, a Christmas concert, or even a simple holiday dinner. You can charge a small fee to attend and add little extras like raffles, photo booths, or bake sales to raise more. These events give people a reason to show up, and give back.
Need help pulling it all off? Partnering with local businesses is a great move. Ask them to donate a space, sponsor part of the event, or contribute prizes. It’s a win for them too, they get visibility and feel good about supporting a cause.
Events like these don’t just raise funds. They build community, create memories, and give supporters a stronger connection to your mission.
Classic December fundraising ideas that still work
Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ones, especially during the busy holiday season. There’s a reason why classic fundraisers show up year after year: they work.
Selling Christmas trees? Still a favorite. Partner with a local farm or supplier and take a small cut of each tree sold. You get a share of the sales, and they get more customers. Win-win.
Another go-to? Holiday cards. Have students, volunteers, or local artists create designs, then sell them as packs. They're easy to produce, and people love sending something meaningful during the season.
Want something a little more hands-on? Host a gingerbread house contest. Families pay a small fee to enter, decorate their creations, and maybe win a prize. It’s messy, fun, and full of holiday spirit.
These tried-and-true ideas might not be flashy, but they’re familiar, festive, and reliable ways to raise funds when people are already in a giving mood.
Active events to raise money while staying warm
Not everyone wants to sit through a long dinner or concert, and that’s okay. Some supporters want to get moving, especially if it’s for a good cause. That’s where active fundraisers come in.
A holiday fun run or themed walk is always a hit. Think Santa Dash, Reindeer Run, or Jingle Jog. Participants pay an entry fee, dress up in festive gear, and maybe even win a prize. You can keep costs low and energy high.
Feeling bold? Organize a polar plunge. Yep, it’s cold. But that’s the point. Supporters take a dip in freezing water, raise pledges from friends and family, and come out feeling like heroes.
Don’t forget ticketed events. A winter sports tournament, basketball, dodgeball, even snowball dodgeball if your area gets snow, can bring in crowds. Sell tickets, snacks, and warm drinks to raise even more.
These events aren’t just good for your fundraising goal. They’re memorable, sharable, and something people will look forward to each year.
Small donation campaigns that make a big impact
You don’t need giant gifts to reach your fundraising goal. In fact, small donations, done right, can be just as powerful. The key is making it easy, personal, and consistent.
One great option? A micro-giving campaign. Ask people to give $5 and tag 5 friends to do the same. It spreads fast, feels doable, and adds up quickly. Friends and family want to help, and this gives them a way to join in without overthinking it.
You can also launch a “12 Days of Giving” campaign. Each day, share a short story or photo showing how your organization makes a difference. Then ask for a small donation tied to that day’s theme. It keeps people engaged and emotionally connected.
Recurring donations are another secret weapon. Tools like SmartAsk™ help turn one-time donors into monthly givers by showing them how a smaller monthly gift makes a bigger long-term impact.
With the right message and the right tools, even $5 gifts can turn into serious fundraising success.
School and high school-specific December fundraising ideas
Schools are full of energy during the holidays, which makes them perfect for fundraising. Whether you're working with younger students or high schoolers, there are plenty of fun, festive ways to raise money this time of year.
Start with a gift wrapping station. Set it up in the school lobby or at a local store. Students can help wrap gifts for a small fee, and it gives parents and shoppers one less thing to worry about.
Holiday bake sales are always a hit. Ask families to donate baked goods, then sell them during school events or pickup times. Bonus points if the treats are decorated with a festive theme.
Winter movie nights, pajama days, and talent shows are easy to plan and fun for students of all ages. You can sell tickets, offer snacks, and even add small raffles to raise a bit more.
The goal here isn’t perfection, it’s participation. Give students a role, keep it light, and use these moments to build school spirit while raising funds for programs they care about.
How to engage local businesses and community partners
Local businesses want to support their community, they just need a reason and a way to get involved. December is the perfect time to reach out and show them how their help can make a real impact.
Start by asking for event sponsorships. Whether it's covering the cost of a venue, printing flyers, or donating snacks, most businesses are happy to pitch in if it means getting their name in front of people.
You can also invite them to donate a portion of sales. A coffee shop might give 10% of sales on a certain day, or a boutique could host a shopping night with part of the proceeds going to your cause. These give-back nights are easy to promote and great for everyone involved.
Another option? Offer to set up donation jars or QR codes at local checkout counters. Even small donations can add up when your whole community pitches in.
By looping in businesses, you’re not just raising funds, you’re creating lasting partnerships that can support your mission year-round.
Connect with your community
The end of the year is one of the best times to fundraise. People are generous, full of holiday spirit, and looking for meaningful ways to give back. Whether you host an event, sell festive goods, or launch a small-donation campaign, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with your community.
The key is to keep things simple, personal, and focused on the impact. A little planning now can lead to a big boost in support, and set the tone for the new year.
And remember, you don’t have to do it all on your own. Harness makes it easier to manage your fundraising, stay organized, and grow your giving, without burning out your team. Let us help you build momentum this December and beyond.
