How to Run a Fundraising Casino Night
A casino night can raise substantial funds for schools, sports clubs, and charities when planned correctly. The following guide walks you through licensing, equipment, staffing, and marketing.
1. Secure Permits and Insurance
- ✓Contact your local gaming authority at
- ✓least eight weeks before the event. Most
- ✓1. Secure Permits and Insurance
Contact your local gaming authority at least eight weeks before the event. Most municipalities require a one-day charity gaming license and liability coverage for all volunteers.
2. Choose Games and Suppliers
- ✓Popular choices include blackjack, roulette, Texas
- ✓Hold’em, and money wheels. Rent professional-grade felt
- ✓2. Choose Games and Suppliers
Popular choices include blackjack, roulette, Texas Hold’em, and money wheels. Rent professional-grade felt tables and trained dealers to maintain credibility and speed of play.
3. Set Ticket Prices and Payout Structure
- Price entry between $75 and $150
- per person. Allocate 60% of revenue to
Price entry between $75 and $150 per person. Allocate 60% of revenue to prizes, 25% to the charity, and 15% to cover costs. Offer a mix of cash, merchandise, and vacation packages.
4. Promote the Event
Use social media countdowns, email newsletters, and local radio spots. Create early-bird discounts and sponsor tables for businesses looking for branding exposure.
5. Manage the Night Smoothly
Station volunteers at check-in, provide clear signage, and schedule short breaks so dealers stay sharp. Track all chip sales with duplicate receipts.
6. Post-Event Follow-Up
- ✓Send thank-you emails, publish final donation
- ✓totals, and collect feedback for next year’s
- ✓6. Post-Event Follow-Up
Send thank-you emails, publish final donation totals, and collect feedback for next year’s planning committee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a dealer for every table?
Yes. Licensed dealers keep games fair and maintain pace. Volunteer dealers often slow play and increase disputes.
What is the typical profit margin?
Well-run events net 30-40% of gross revenue after prizes and expenses. Larger crowds improve margins significantly.
Can guests use real money?
No. Most jurisdictions require play money or scrip that cannot be redeemed for cash outside the event.
How many tables should I rent?
Plan one table per 10-12 guests. This ratio keeps lines short while maximizing table rental value.