Movie night fundraisers are a popular and effective way for schools and communities to raise money for various causes. From supporting extracurricular activities to funding community projects, movie fundraisers provide a fun and engaging way for people to come together and support a common goal. With the right planning and execution, movie night fundraisers can not only raise funds but also build community spirit and create lasting memories.
One of the key benefits of hosting a movie night fundraiser is the ease and affordability of organizing the event. All that is required is a suitable venue, a projector or screen, and a movie that appeals to a broad audience. This simplicity makes it an ideal option for schools and community groups with limited budgets and resources.
Movie night fundraisers can be adapted to suit various themes and occasions, from holiday movie nights to outdoor screenings in the summer. Use Video Librarian's collection development section to brainstorm film programming ideas and fundraising ideas.
With these factors in mind, it is no wonder that movie fundraisers have become a popular choice for schools and communities looking to raise funds while having fun. This can be for clubs, charity organizations, local businesses, or even sports teams. Read below to learn how to plan your own movie night!
Finding a film for your public screening
Next, it’s all about choosing what movie to play at your fundraiser. Ask yourself if you want kids to be present. If so, you would have to pick a family-friendly movie. Think about what movies appeal to your particular group of people. You can choose from a genre like modern musicals or from a historical drama collection to name a few examples. Maybe an educational documentary on a thought-provoking subject could draw people in. If you can think of a “crowd pleaser” that will get everyone to their seats, you’ll have an audience.
Remember that anytime you show a movie to a large number of people at a public event, you need a public viewing license. According to Insane Impact, public performance rights cost about $300-$2,000 depending on the number of people coming, the location, the revenue generated from ticket sales, and the film you show. Video Librarian also has more details about the cost of showing movies in public. We also have a guide to hosting public screenings that you can consult before planning your movie fundraiser.
You can visit Swank Motion Pictures and Criterion to purchase a license to show movies in public. Just let them know what title you would like to purchase and they will facilitate your needs. Keep in mind you would still need to purchase a public viewing license even if the movie you are showing is on streaming.
Finding a location for your public screening
Now, you have to think about what venue everyone will see your movie in. Make sure wherever you pick has enough space for seats and good parking. If you’d like to raise extra funds, find out if the venue you picked has room for a concession stand where the money for food and drinks can go towards your cause. We also have an in-depth guide to hosting a movie night fundraiser at your local community center.
The more volunteer staff you have, the more organized your event will be. Find a person to help you create a budget and keep a list of revenues and expenses. Place someone else in charge of advertising where you can make posters, flyers, and email messaging to promote the event. Use as many social media platforms as possible to bring outreach to it. When the event happens, have volunteers collect tickets and show people to their seats. After all, there’s nothing like good service.
What products do I need to host a movie night fundraiser for my school or community organization?
To better organize your ticket funds, you can set up an online booking system in places like Eventbrite. This website will give you the opportunity to talk in detail about the event you’re promoting as well as pricing. Some platforms can actually offer guests to donate any amount they want. Even if certain guests aren’t able to attend the event, they can still donate to the cause.
Having equipment is very important during a screening. See if you can find a company that you can rent out equipment to or purchase your own at discounted prices or Amazon or Best Buy. Find a projector with a size decent enough for people in the back row to be able to see as well as one with built-in or Bluetooth speakers. If the event will be outside, encourage guests to bring their own chairs and blankets so there’s room for more people. Always test out your equipment months in advance just in case of any malfunctions.
What will make my movie night fundraiser stand out from other events?
Before you start the movie, give a little introduction about the movie you are showing and the cause you’re promoting.
The casual atmosphere of a movie night can create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for people to socialize and have fun. Audiences can sit back, relax, and have a great time knowing their contribution will keep them entertained and help a cause in need.
Additionally, the appeal of a popular film can attract a wider audience, making it easier to draw in more participants and raise funds. By offering a unique and entertaining experience, a movie night fundraiser can distinguish itself from more traditional fundraising events and generate greater interest and engagement from supporters.
With the right equipment, advertising, movie license, and service, you’ll be able to provide quality film programming and reach your funding goals.