Why a Skittles Fundraiser Works So Well
There’s something about skittles that brings everyone together. It’s friendly, familiar, and just competitive enough to make people cheer when a strike lands.
That’s what makes a charity skittles night one of the best fundraising ideas for adults. It’s low-cost, easy to run, and doesn’t require any special skills, just a willingness to have a laugh and roll a few balls.
Whether you’re part of a workplace, social club or community group, a skittles fundraiser is a brilliant way to get people off their phones, out of the house and supporting something that matters.
Planning Your Charity Skittles Event
Pick the Perfect Venue
Start by finding the right space. A pub skittles alley is ideal, but if your local doesn’t have one, don’t panic, a village hall or social club works just as well. Portable skittles sets are available to hire from us, and many venues will already have the lanes and pins ready to go.
If you’re hosting in a shared space, think about the layout. You’ll want room for players, spectators and a table for your raffle prizes or donations box.
Set Your Goals and Budget
Before you send any invites, decide what “success” looks like.
Are you trying to raise £200 for a local cause or a bigger total for charity? Knowing your target helps you plan entry fees, raffles and side games.
Keep costs low by asking local businesses to sponsor prizes or donate snacks. It’s a great way for them to get involved and for you to keep more money going to your cause.
Building Excitement and Selling Tickets
Promote Your Event Locally and Online
Word of mouth is powerful, but a few Facebook posts, posters in local pubs, and a quick note in your community WhatsApp group go a long way.
If you’re part of a company, add it to your staff newsletter or intranet. For clubs and associations, include it in your fixture list or noticeboard.
Make it clear what you’re raising money for, people love to support a good cause, especially when they can do it while having fun.
Add Fun Extras to Boost Donations
A raffle is the classic add-on for a reason. Ask local shops or takeaways to contribute vouchers or small prizes, and display them proudly on the night.
Between rounds, run mini-games like “guess the total pins” or “nearest the skittle.” They’re easy to organise and add more laughter (and fundraising potential) to the evening.
Selling snacks or running a simple bar (if the venue allows) can also add to the total, and to the atmosphere.
Running the Event Smoothly
Simple Rules and Scoring
Keep your skittles competition rules straightforward. Decide on team sizes (four to six works well), and play over a set number of legs or rounds.
Nominate a scorer with a clipboard or download a skittles scorecard app to make tracking easier. Keep things light-hearted and fair: it’s a fundraiser, not the UK Championships.
Keeping the Energy High
Give your teams creative names (the “Pinheads” and “Bowled Over” are classics), play some upbeat music, and don’t be afraid to add a bit of commentary.
Have a halftime break for the raffle or a quick food run, and keep everyone’s energy topped up with snacks and drinks. The more fun people have, the more generous they’ll be with their donations.
After the Event – Making It Count
Once the last pin’s fallen, celebrate your success.
Post your total raised online, tag your sponsors, and thank everyone who helped out. A few photos on social media or a local news mention can go a long way in keeping your community engaged.
If it’s gone well (and it will), make it an annual tradition.
Regular charity pub games build loyalty and local pride (and before long) your event might become a highlight of the community calendar.
Quick Tips for a Successful Skittles Fundraiser:
- Keep it simple, social and inclusive.
- Focus on fun over formality.
- Always connect the event back to your cause.
- Don’t overthink it, a great night and a good cause are all you need.
A charity skittles night is proof that fundraising doesn’t have to be fancy or complicated. With a few pins, a willing crowd, and a splash of local spirit, you’ll raise funds, laughter, and maybe even a few future champions.
