Wintertime is known for chilly temperatures, cozy blankets, and being the season of giving. Fundraising during this time of year is a great way to raise money for the 3-Day while embracing the spirit of holiday altruism. Here are twelve winter fundraising ideas to consider. 

Holiday Gift-Wrapping Service 

Set up a gift-wrapping station at a local shopping center or organize a gift-wrapping service within your community. Charge a fee and provide festive wrapping paper and decorations to fully embody the holiday season. 

Winter Bake Sale 

Host a winter-themed bake sale with treats like gingerbread cookies, hot chocolate, and other chilly delights. You can sell these goodies at local events, schools, or online.  

Cookie Swap 

Another option is a cookie swap where everyone donates a certain dollar amount to exchange their tastiest sweets! Bake away and share the love with your friends to raise money for the 3-Day. 

Christmas Tree Recycling 

After the holidays, collect used Christmas trees for recycling. Charge a fee for tree pick-up and disposal services and then recycle the trees to raise funds for your cause. 

Ice Skating Fundraiser 

Partner with a local ice rink to host a fundraising event filled with winter charm. Charge an entry fee, offer skate rentals, and maybe even consider organizing a competition or providing lessons for additional funds. 

Hot Chocolate Stand 

In summertime we have lemonade and in winter we cozy up with hot cocoa! Top each cup with pink marshmallows and fundraise away.  

Snow Sculpture Contest/Sand Sculpture 

Host a snow sculpture (or sand sculpture for those in warmer weather) contest in your community and see everyone’s artistic talent. Participants can pay an entry fee and spectators can vote for their favorite sculptures with donations. 

Winter Party 

If you’re into glitz and glam, you may want to organize a formal winter party with dinner and music at your home. Tickets can be sold for entry, and you can also raise money through silent auctions of items that have been donated to the event and have the proceeds go toward your fundraising.

Mac & Cheese Cook-Off 

The 3-Day and mac & cheese go hand in hand! Organize an event where participants can showcase their culinary skills with their best cheesy recipe. Attendees can purchase tickets to sample the dishes and vote for their favorites in a blind taste test. 

Winter Movie Night 

Organize a movie night with your favorite winter or holiday-themed film and encourage attendees to bring their coziest blankets and pajamas. Sell tickets for entry and offer concessions like popcorn, hot cocoa, and other snacks. 

Polar Plunge 

Organize a “Polar Plunge” event where participants take a chilly dip into an ice-cold lake or pool. This is a fun and daring way to raise money during the winter months, and a bucket list item for many individuals! 

Winter-Themed Trivia Night 

Host a trivia night with questions related to winter holidays, traditions, and general knowledge. Participants can pay to join the event and you can offer prizes for the winning teams! 

Remember to promote your winter fundraising event through social media, local advertising, and community outreach to ensure its success. What is your favorite way to fundraise during the colder months?