The wind may be howling and the snow may be coming down, but many nonprofit leaders are already elbows-deep in planning their springtime fundraising events. And who can blame them — we’re all imagining tulips and baby bunnies as we throw on that extra sweater!
Your donors will be ready for a warm-weather escape just about now, and we’ve got some fun ideas to help you plan an unforgettable springtime soiree that’ll excite your base, bring them out from hibernation, and get the energy flowing!
Check out our top fundraising gala ideas for springtime. Bring on the mimosas, lighter sweaters, and maybe even flip flops!
Host a Garden Party
Nothing says springtime like flowers peeping out from the ground and blossoms emerging on the trees! Now is the time to secure a fantastic outdoor destination for your springtime fundraiser; think the local botanical gardens, outdoor wedding venues, or even a generous donor’s luscious backyard.
For decor, fresh cut flowers are ideal — and maybe find ways to incorporate goods from local vendors like beekeepers, bakers, and chocolatiers!
Make the event extra special by putting some garden-themed travel auction packages up for grabs in a live or silent auction, raffle, or sweepstakes. Here are some fun ideas:
Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort — Tucson, Arizona
Don’t be fooled by the desert locale: this stunning resort is home to lush gardens, where guests are invited to walk through and experience deep tranquility. Not only that, but the spa amenities are world-class!
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn Luxury Package — Sonoma, California
Your donors will wander through beautiful vineyards without a care in the world when they win this deluxe package that embodies the heart of luxury. The Fairmont is known for its impeccable style and comfort, and this experience promises exactly that.
Exotic Bali Travel Package for 10 — Amed, Bali
There is perhaps no greater embodiment of the word “lush” than the tropical island nation of Bali. Known for its forested volcanic mountains, verdant terrain, and breathtaking beaches, your donors will be stepping into a tropical paradise!
Invite Your Donors to a Taco Feast
Who doesn’t love a good taco and margarita dinner? Pump up the springtime festivities with a fiesta, and celebrate the warm weather with hot food and vibrant colors! One fun thing nonprofits have done is invite a local taco truck to their event and hand out vouchers to each guest so they can choose what they like.
Make the night extra-special by offering several kinds of margaritas, perhaps even including one that’s specially created for your event!
Keep the bright spirit alive by adding these sun-soaked vacation packages to your lineup:
Bahia Cabo Hotel Beach Vacation Package — Cabo, Mexico
Adventure, sunshine, delicious food, and stunning views are all included in this one-of-a-kind trip to Cabo San Lucas. Located on a serene stretch of the Sea of Cortez that includes Cabo’s most swimmable stretch of sand, this package will inspire and delight!
Sonadora Resort ~ Exclusive Mexican Travel Package — Baja Peninsula, Mexico
This package for up to 18 people is very special: your donors will have exclusive access to the entire resort! Each villa includes a private infinity pool, there are opportunities for ocean activities, and plenty of chips with freshly made guacamole and salsa.
Mexico Coastal Getaway ~ Hacienda Encantada — Cabo, Mexico
Unlimited food and beverages are included in this sunny vacation package for two people. Daily spa access, sunset dinner, and close proximity to town and the beach make this travel experience very unique.
Throw a Mini-Golf Themed Event
Golf is a hugely popular sport because whether one is a casual player, a vacation golfer, or a hardcore enthusiast, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities! Renting out a mini-golf course is a fun way to get golfers and their families involved in your event, and will certainly raise the fun factor.
Some creative ideas include hosting a mini-competition with fun prizes that relate to your nonprofit. For instance, perhaps the mini-golf winner receives a special parking spot or recognition in your next newsletter. Your volunteers can be dressed in golf attire, and you can keep with the “mini” theme by offering mini hot dogs, mini pizzas, and other miniature food as appetizers!
Get your golfing donors even more excited by inviting them to bid on these luxe golf getaways:
San Diego Golf and Spa Vacation — Del Mar, California
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar golf resort and spa takes its commitment to luxury vacationing seriously! Featuring San Diego’s only Tom Fazio-designed course, as well as one of only 60 Forbes Five-Star spas in the world, your donors will be ultra satisfied with this travel experience.
Golf Getaway at Fairmont St. Andrews — Fife, Scotland
Experience the game of golf in the country where it all started! The Fairmont St. Andrews was designated the European Golf Resort of the Year in 2012 by the IAGTO, and Best Large Hotel of the Year in 2014 by the Scottish Golf Tourism Awards.
Scottsdale Golf and Spa Package — Scottsdale, Arizona
Keep it closer to home with a delightful getaway to Scottsdale, one of America’s favorite golf locales, known for its beautiful weather and lush golf courses. Boasting two 18-hole championship courses and a host of golf concierge services, this is a trip to remember!
Philantopia Can Help You Raise More at Your Gala Event
Whatever the theme, and whatever the season of your upcoming fundraising gala, our team of travel experts is ready to help you select the perfect trips to compliment your event and surprise and delight your donors!
Connect with us today to brainstorm ideas, learn tips about how to raise more funds, and get the creative juices flowing when it comes to your gala fundraiser.