Thanksgiving is the perfect time for schools to bring families together and raise funds for important programs, field trips, or classroom needs. With the holiday spirit in full swing, people are more willing to give — and participate in fun seasonal events.
Here are 8 easy Thanksgiving fundraisers for schools that are simple to set up, engaging for students and families, and effective for raising money.
1. Turkey Trot Fun Run 🏃♂️
A Turkey Trot is a classic Thanksgiving fundraiser.
- Host a 1-mile or 5K fun run on school grounds or in the community.
- Participants pay a small entry fee.
- Offer T-shirts or medals for top finishers.
- Encourage families to walk or run together.
Pro Tip: Secure local sponsors to cover event costs and boost donations.
2. Thanksgiving Pie Sale 🥧
Who doesn’t love pie?
- Partner with a local bakery or have families donate homemade pies.
- Sell pre-orders for pickup before the holiday.
- Offer a variety of flavors like pumpkin, apple, and pecan.
Pro Tip: Bundle pies with coffee or cider for added value.
3. Gratitude Gram Messages ✉️
Let students and families send Thanksgiving-themed notes of gratitude to friends, teachers, or staff.
- Sell Gratitude Grams for $1–$5 each.
- Include a small treat like a lollipop or sticker.
- Deliver them before Thanksgiving break.
This low-cost idea spreads kindness and raises funds.
4. Harvest Festival 🎡
Host a school harvest festival with fall-themed activities:
- Pumpkin decorating
- Hayrides or photo booths
- Bake sales and craft tables
- Simple carnival games
Sell tickets or wristbands for entry and activities to generate funds.
5. Thanksgiving Feast To-Go 🍽️
Offer families a pre-ordered Thanksgiving meal they can pick up.
- Partner with a caterer or culinary program.
- Include turkey, sides, and dessert.
- Sell family-sized portions to maximize revenue.
Pro Tip: Offer different portion sizes for families big and small.
6. Pumpkin Decorating Contest 🎃
Get students involved in a creative competition.
- Charge a small entry fee to participate.
- Display the decorated pumpkins in the school.
- Let the community vote with dollar bills — every vote equals a donation.
This adds fun and a little friendly competition to your fundraiser.
7. Giving Thanks Donation Drive 🙌
Thanksgiving is a great time to highlight your school’s mission.
- Create a donation campaign where families can give directly.
- Use a simple online giving page or text-to-give.
- Share impact stories to inspire generosity.
Pro Tip: Offer fun incentives for different donation levels (e.g., class pizza party).
8. Thanksgiving Basket Raffle 🎟️
Put together themed gift baskets with Thanksgiving goodies.
- Include candles, snacks, décor, or cooking supplies.
- Sell raffle tickets to families and the community.
- Draw winners before the holiday break.
Pro Tip: Secure donations from local businesses to fill baskets.
Final Thought
Thanksgiving is all about community and gratitude, making it the perfect season for fundraising. With these 8 easy Thanksgiving fundraisers for schools, you can bring families together, create lasting memories, and raise meaningful funds to support your students and programs.
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