5 Reasons Why Outdoor Movies Are Effective Fundraisers

by Kevin Gardner

Planning a successful fundraiser is no mean feat. You need to find volunteers, create marketing and rent equipment. Most importantly, you have to choose an event. If you're struggling to decide on the perfect option, you may want to consider an outdoor movie. Here are five reasons why outdoor movies are effective fundraisers.

1. Mass Appeal

Choosing a fundraising event that will draw in tons of people is tough. Popular events, such as craft fairs and live performances, certainly attract a fair amount of donors. However, these options don't appeal to every demographic. 

Movies, on the other hand, can be enjoyed by practically every type of person. Truth be told, it's hard to find someone who doesn't enjoy going to the theater. Speaking of the theater, you can increase the appeal of your event by advertising your screen. Playing a movie on a large screen is always exciting!

If you live in a close-knit community, word of a public movie night may spread almost too quickly. Fortunately, you don't need to worry about charging everyone in person. In this case, you can use fundraising technology to accept donations online, as well as ask for RSVPs beforehand. 

2. Copious Space

When planning an event, securing enough space is often a stressful component. Luckily, holding your event outdoors practically solves this issue! As long as your venue is in an open area, you should have plenty of room for everyone. 

This open space also allows for kids and animals to roam around. Asking a small child or pet to sit still for hours isn't easy. If a donor's loved one needs a break, this can be easily accomplished. As long as the event's borders are marked for safety, these moviegoers may be free to run around. 

3. Simple Planning

Planning a fundraiser often takes more effort than setting one up. Fortunately, a movie showing isn't nearly as complicated as hiring performers or making baskets. Your main concern will likely be the movie itself.

The equipment to set up an outside movie can be found fairly easily. You can either rent it online or from a local group. In terms of the film itself, as long as you pick a family-friendly crowd-pleaser (Disney is usually a good way to go) you'll be set! Just be sure to bring along one tech-savvy person. 

Other than the movie, you'll want to plan basic comforts for the guests. Have extra blankets and chairs ready, as well as easy access to a bathroom. Compared to weeks of rehearsal and work, this process should only take a few days. 

4. Further Fundraising Opportunities

Holding an outdoor movie fundraiser is a great way to make money. For one thing, charging for a ticket is regular when it comes to movies. Guests will likely be expecting to pay upfront. Therefore, you'll have a reliable influx of money. 

Since you're holding the event outdoors, you can also set up other booths. Not only does this provide more monetary opportunities, but it may also help to educate any newcomers. If someone attends the movie without knowing your organization, you can take the opportunity to spread your message.

Finally, since movies are all about concessions, you can also sell food and drinks. Guests are almost sure to partake in snacks, so this is an excellent way to bring in more money. Make sure you have popcorn, candy and a fun drink or two!

5. Easy Repetition

If your initial outdoor movie fundraiser is a success, it doesn't need to be your last one. In fact, you could feasibly hold this event weekly. As long as the equipment and space can be rented out regularly, you should be good to go.

Another great aspect of movie events is theming. If you're trying to find ways to keep people coming, this is a great method of garnering interest. For instance, you can play Alien on a sci-fi night. You could even let the most giving donor pick a movie!

Few things bring communities together like a movie. Champion your cause, bring popcorn and enjoy watching some cinema!