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Your school autumn fair can raise serious funds and bring the whole community together, if you plan it right.
Use the half-term window or the run-up to Bonfire Night (5 November) as your natural autumn-fair date.
If your PTA earns over £5,000 a year, register with the Charity Commission to unlock Gift Aid on eligible donations.
Sell and draw your raffle on the day (incidental non-commercial lottery) and skip the council registration entirely.
Tap-to-pay is essential: most families no longer carry cash, so have a free card-reader solution ready.
Run ticketing, donations and raffles through Zeffy and keep 100% of every pound you raise.
As the leaves turn and the air cools, schools across the UK gear up for one of the most exciting community events of the season: the autumn fair! These celebrations are more than just fun. They are an opportunity to bring families together, spark school spirit, and raise funds in creative and engaging ways.
Whether you are looking for fresh school fundraising ideas, activities for autumn fairs, or unique ways to boost community involvement, this guide has you covered. With 38 inspiring autumn fair ideas, you will be able to create an unforgettable event that not only delights pupils and families but also supports your school's programmes and resources.
Before you plan a single stall, it is worth knowing where your PTA stands legally, because it affects which fundraising tools and tax reliefs are available to you.
Once registered, your PTA can claim Gift Aid on eligible donations, reclaiming 25p for every £1 given by a UK taxpayer via HMRC's Gift Aid scheme. That means a £100 donation becomes £125 for your school at no extra cost to the donor. Note: Gift Aid does not apply to raffle ticket purchases or event ticket sales, as the donor receives something in return (a chance to win, or admission). More on that in the raffle section below.
Many organisers conflate "not-for-profit" with "registered charity", they are different. Only a Charity Commission-registered PTA can reclaim Gift Aid, access charity rate cards, and use gift-in-kind donation reporting.
Our favourite autumn fair ideas for schools
School Booth Ideas for Autumn Fairs
1. Apple picking or pumpkin trail
What would an autumn fair be without pumpkin picking or apple picking? This simple and fun activity is a tradition for good reason. Partner with a local pick-your-own (PYO) farm, or arrange pumpkins in the school field, and give children a hands-on autumn activity. Look out for British varieties like Bramley, Cox, or Egremont Russet if you are organising apple picking.
Setup instructions:
Set up tables with markers and autumn-themed decorations.
Arrange pumpkins or apples in a designated area for easy picking.
Create a timeframe for decorating after everyone has made their choice.
Required materials:
Pumpkins or apples (sourced locally if possible).
Decorative materials such as paint, glitter, markers, or stickers.
Cleanup sheets to keep things tidy.
Fundraising variations:
Make it a decoration contest judged by teachers or a panel of parents.
Add a seasonal backdrop for family photos as a keepsake.
2. Apple bobbing
Apple bobbing is an autumn and Halloween classic that children of all ages love. Invite different age groups to try their luck. In Scotland this is traditionally known as 'dooking for apples', a fun fact worth sharing on your signage. Encourage participation by awarding small prizes to all who have a go.
Setup instructions:
Fill tubs with water and add apples to float inside.
Offer directions on where to place apples once retrieved.
Place towels nearby for easy clean-up.
Required materials:
Large tubs.
Buckets for retrieved apples.
Water.
Fresh apples.
Towels.
Fundraising variations:
Tuck small wrapped prizes among the apples for an extra incentive.
Create different difficulty levels for different age groups.
3. Face painting
A face painting booth is a must-have for any children's event. Save money by buying face-paint crayons online and ask parent volunteers and teachers to share their artistic talents.
Setup instructions:
Set up a table with face paint and brushes.
Offer a selection of design ideas for children to choose from.
Have artists ready with a comfortable area for children to sit.
Required materials:
Face paint (crayons or non-toxic paints).
Brushes and sponges.
Paint palettes.
An inspiration board.
A comfortable chair for children.
Fundraising variations:
Offer themed autumn designs such as scarecrows, pumpkins, and friendly monsters.
Host a mini face-painting competition with a prize for the most creative design.
4. Photo booth
A photo booth is a fun idea for any autumn fair. Set up one or two booths with autumn decorations, props, and costumes. Families can take photos to share online using a hashtag you create for the event.
Setup instructions:
Choose an autumn-coloured fabric backdrop or a seasonal theme.
Gather props such as fake leaves, pumpkins, witch hats, and scarves.
Decide who will take photos and whether you want a shared camera or personal phones.
Required materials:
Backdrop.
Props.
Camera (optional).
Fundraising variations:
Offer an instant print photo strip featuring your PTA logo as a keepsake.
Create a photo challenge such as 'most creative' or 'best duo'.
Add a social media element with a hashtag so participants can share photos and your PTA can repost them.
5. Hay bale maze
A hay bale maze is excellent fun for children of all ages at an autumn fair. Pile hay bales high to create a sizable maze, or keep it low and simple for younger children.
Setup instructions:
Arrange hay bales to form a maze.
Offer directions or clues throughout to help participants find their way.
Add safety measures such as ropes or adult guides at key junctions.
Put up clear signage for the entrance and exit.
Required materials:
Hay bales.
Signage.
Safety measures (ropes, guides).
Fundraising variations:
Add a spooky Halloween twist with hidden surprises and decorations for older children.
Create a timed maze race or a relay to bring some healthy competition.
Autumn Fair Activities for Families and Schools
6. Run a coconut shy
The coconut shy is a classic UK fete game and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Set up posts with coconuts balanced on top and let players try to knock them off with a ball. Anyone who succeeds keeps the coconut as their prize.
Setup instructions:
Secure posts in the ground at a safe distance apart.
Balance coconuts on top of each post.
Mark a throwing line and hand out balls.
Keep a supply of spare coconuts to reset the stall.
Required materials:
Wooden posts or stands.
Coconuts.
Balls (tennis balls or similar).
Prizes (the coconuts themselves, or small sweets for younger children).
Fundraising variations:
Charge per set of three throws and offer a bonus prize for anyone who knocks off two or more.
Add an 'expert lane' with coconuts at a greater distance for older children and adults.
Run a 'splat the rat' variant (drop a soft toy rat through a pipe; players try to hit it with a bat) for very young children.
7. Leaf pile jump
Young children love jumping in piles of autumn leaves. Fill large containers or kiddie pools with artificial or natural leaves and hide small prizes inside for children to find.
Setup instructions:
Fill large containers or paddling pools with leaves (real or artificial).
Set up a safe jumping area, clear of hazards.
Required materials:
Artificial or natural leaves.
Containers or paddling pools.
Fundraising variations:
Add a 'treasure hunt' element with wrapped prizes hidden in the leaves.
Create a relay race through several leaf piles to a finish line.
8. Guess the sweets in the jar
Fill a large jar with autumn sweets, think toffees, chocolate limes, Haribo, Quality Street, or fudge, and have children and adults guess the number inside. The closest guess wins the jar.
Setup instructions:
Fill a large jar or container with sweets and note the exact total.
Set out paper and pens for guests to write their name and guess.
Choose a small additional prize for the winner if you like.
Required materials:
Sweets (toffees, chocolate limes, Haribo, or seasonal favourites).
Large glass jar or container.
Paper.
Pens.
Prize.
Fundraising variations:
Charge a small entry fee per guess, with proceeds going to a named school cause such as new library books.
Add extra categories such as 'Guess the weight of the jar'.
9. Scarecrow relay race
Teams in the scarecrow relay must dress a scarecrow by running to a pile of clothes, putting on an item, and returning before the next team member goes. Try an additional obstacle course for older children to step up the competition.
Setup instructions:
Set up an area with old clothes and accessories ready to build a scarecrow.
Mark your start and finish lines clearly.
Agree team sizes in advance.
Post the rules somewhere visible for all participants.
Required materials:
Old clothes, hats, and accessories for a scarecrow.
Obstacle course items such as cones or hula hoops.
Signage for start and finish.
Fundraising variations:
Add a time limit and keep racing until an overall winner is found.
Award bonus points for the best-dressed scarecrow.
10. Pin the tail on the black cat
Put an autumn twist on 'Pin the tail on the donkey.' Blindfold participants and have them pin the tail on a large black cat picture for Halloween-themed fun.
Setup instructions:
Draw or print a large black cat image.
Hang it somewhere everyone can reach easily.
Provide paper 'tail' cut-outs for participants to stick on.
Mark a starting point and take turns.
Required materials:
Poster of a black cat.
Paper tails.
Tape or adhesive.
Fundraising variations:
Play music to build atmosphere and create several rounds to keep it going longer.
Film the attempts for social media, which can attract more participants to join in.
11. Pumpkin skittles
Choose a round pumpkin and roll it gently down a lane to knock over skittles, just like a traditional bowling game. You can even carve grip holes into the pumpkin for easier handling.
Setup instructions:
Set up skittles in a straight line or triangular formation.
Mark your 'bowling lanes' clearly.
Set aside the roundest pumpkins to use as balls.
Required materials:
Round pumpkins.
Skittles (or plastic bottles filled with sand as substitutes).
Rope or chalk to mark lanes.
Fundraising variations:
Place prizes on specific skittles for participants to aim at.
Run a mini tournament to encourage families to cheer each other on.
12. Tombola
The tombola is the definitive UK school-fair game and a reliable fundraiser. Participants draw a ticket from a drum; if the number ends in 0 or 5 (or whichever rule you set), they win the corresponding numbered prize from the prize table.
Setup instructions:
Collect donated prizes from parents, local businesses, and the school community. Number each prize clearly.
Set up a prize table with numbered items on display.
Fill a drum or bag with matching numbered tickets.
Run a 'bottle tombola' using donated bottles (wine, squash, olive oil), a perennial PTA favourite.
Offer a 'strip of five tickets' deal for a small discount to increase spend per visitor.
Note: a tombola is legally a lottery. If tickets are sold and drawn entirely on the day, it qualifies as an incidental non-commercial lottery, no council registration required. See the raffle guidance below.
13. Hook a duck
Hook a duck is a paddling-pool classic that works brilliantly for very young children. Float plastic ducks in a shallow paddling pool; each duck has a number on its base corresponding to a prize.
Setup instructions:
Fill a paddling pool or large tray with water and float numbered plastic ducks.
Set out a corresponding numbered prize table.
Give each child a small hook or magnet wand to 'catch' a duck.
Required materials:
Plastic ducks (numbered on the base).
Paddling pool or large water tray.
Hook or magnet wands.
Numbered prizes.
Fundraising variations:
Offer a 'golden duck' for a bonus prize to add excitement.
Run the stall as a 'pay per go' game with a guaranteed small prize every time, younger children love the certainty of winning something.
Fun Autumn Fair Games and Carnival Ideas
14. Pumpkin ring toss
A pumpkin ring toss is an easy and affordable game for all ages. Set up pumpkins of different sizes on stands and give players rings to toss over the pumpkin stems.
Setup instructions:
Arrange pumpkins of various sizes on hay bales, crates, or decorative stands.
Assign different point values based on pumpkin size or distance.
Mark a throwing line and give each participant a set number of rings.
Keep score or award small prizes for successful tosses.
Required materials:
Various-sized pumpkins (ideally with long stems).
Hula hoops or rope rings (DIY with rope and duct tape).
Hay bales or crates for height variation.
Fundraising variations:
Use glow sticks as rings and put LED lights inside carved pumpkins for an evening version.
Place a large pumpkin at a long distance for a bonus prize if anyone lands it.
Float inflatable pumpkins in a paddling pool for a water-based twist.
Arrange mini pumpkins in a grid so children can aim to land rings in a row, like pumpkin noughts and crosses.
15. Acorn spoon race
You have heard of egg-and-spoon races, this is the autumn version. Organise a race where children balance an acorn on a spoon around an obstacle course. The first to the finish line wins a prize.
Setup instructions:
Mark a racecourse with cones or hay bales, adding small obstacles such as hoops.
Each participant balances an acorn on a spoon and races to the finish line without dropping it.
If someone drops the acorn, they return to the start.
Required materials:
Large spoons.
Acorns.
Cones or hay bales.
Fundraising variations:
Run a relay race where teams pass the acorn without dropping it for added teamwork.
Add tunnels, balance beams, or hula hoops to step through.
Blindfold one player while a teammate verbally guides them through the course.
Have participants collect and carry multiple acorns to increase the difficulty.
16. Pumpkin carving contest
Host a pumpkin carving contest and invite children to compete for prizes across categories: Funniest, Scariest, Most Creative, and Best Overall. For an extra spectacle, hire a local artist who specialises in pumpkin design.
Setup instructions:
Set up carving stations with pumpkin scoops, carving tools, and templates.
Assign categories: Funniest, Scariest, Most Creative, Best Overall.
Allow time for carving and decorating before judging begins.
Use a panel of judges or let attendees vote for winners.
Required materials:
Pumpkins.
Pumpkin carving kits.
Paints, markers, and glitter.
Tea lights or LED lights.
Fundraising variations:
Run a speed carving challenge with a time limit.
Assign pop-culture or film themes for extra creativity.
Use glow-in-the-dark paint for a blacklight pumpkin art option.
Offer a no-carve decorating station using stickers, ribbons, and craft supplies for those who prefer not to carve.
Autumn fair food ideas for schools
17. Toffee apples
Toffee apples are the quintessential British autumn and Bonfire Night treat. Set up a toffee apple station where participants can dip their apple in warm toffee coating (made from sugar, water, and red food colouring). Please note the allergen and hot-sugar safety requirements for a school setting, ensure adequate adult supervision and keep hot equipment away from young children.
Setup instructions:
Set up a toffee dipping station with apples on sticks.
Prepare the toffee mixture (sugar, water, red food colouring) and keep it warm.
Offer optional toppings such as sprinkles or crushed nuts (check allergen requirements carefully before serving nuts at a school event).
Required materials:
Apples.
Sugar and water for toffee coating.
Red food colouring.
Sticks.
Toppings (optional).
Fundraising variations:
Offer apple slices with a toffee drizzle for younger children who find whole toffee apples difficult.
Add a 'caramel drizzle' variation alongside the traditional toffee for choice.
Create a display stand of decorated toffee apples to sell as gifts to take home.
18. Toffee popcorn
Sell bags of toffee popcorn or make toffee popcorn balls for children to enjoy. This British sweet-shop staple (think Butterkist) is cheap to make in bulk and always popular.
Setup instructions:
Make fresh popcorn and coat it in warm toffee sauce.
Allow it to cool on baking trays before packaging into bags or cups.
Required materials:
Popcorn kernels.
Toffee sauce or golden syrup.
Butter and brown sugar.
Bags or cups for serving.
Fundraising variations:
Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a warming autumn spiced popcorn.
Create gourmet mixes combining toffee popcorn with pretzels or white chocolate drizzle.
Run a DIY popcorn bar where children add mix-ins such as dried cranberries or toffee pieces.
19. Toasted marshmallow bar
A toasted marshmallow station is a beloved Bonfire Night tradition and works brilliantly at any autumn fair with a fire pit or tabletop burner. For those who want a UK twist on the classic American s'mores, offer McVitie's chocolate digestives as the biscuit, they work perfectly as a substitute for graham crackers.
Setup instructions:
Provide roasting sticks and a safe supervised fire pit or mini tabletop burners.
Offer a variety of marshmallows and optional accompaniments.
Required materials:
Marshmallows (classic, flavoured, or jumbo).
Roasting sticks.
Chocolate digestives (for the UK-style s'mores variant).
Chocolate bars (milk, dark, or white) as optional extras.
Fundraising variations:
Sell 'toasted marshmallow kits' (sticks plus a bag of marshmallows) as a take-home activity.
Offer a hot chocolate pairing (see section 21) alongside the marshmallow station.
Run a 'best toasted marshmallow' challenge, with guests voting for their favourite.
20. Jacket potatoes with fillings
Jacket potatoes are the quintessential UK PTA autumn-fair food. Bake a large batch and lay out a generous toppings station so families can build their own.
Setup instructions:
Bake jacket potatoes in advance and keep warm in a slow cooker or insulated container.
Offer 'chilli jacket potatoes' with a simple chilli con carne ladled over the top, a hearty upgrade that justifies a slightly higher price.
Run a 'build your own' toppings bar where children choose their combination.
Sell warm pots of chilli con carne separately for adults.
21. Cinnamon doughnuts
Partner with a local bakery and serve fresh cinnamon sugar doughnuts, the traditional British funfair staple. You can offer pumpkin spice as a seasonal option if your bakery supports it, but cinnamon sugar is the lead flavour for a UK autumn fair.
Setup instructions:
Partner with a local bakery or make them fresh on-site.
Offer cinnamon sugar, glazed, and maple drizzle options.
Required materials:
Cinnamon sugar doughnuts.
Cinnamon sugar and icing glazes.
Doughnut holders or plates.
Fundraising variations:
Sell mini doughnut holes, easy for children to grab and go.
Create a DIY toppings bar for guests to dip in various sauces such as toffee or chocolate.
Offer a 'doughnut on a string' game where children must eat a doughnut without using their hands.
22. Corn on the cob
Children will not notice it is healthy when they can pile on the butter, salt, and seasonings.
Setup instructions:
Boil or grill corn and serve on sticks.
Offer butter and seasoning options.
Required materials:
Fresh corn.
Butter and seasonings.
Corn holders.
Variations:
Offer herb-infused butter options such as garlic butter, rosemary, or honey butter.
Cut into quarters as 'corn ribs' for easy eating.
23. Hot chocolate, mulled apple juice, and warming autumn drinks
A drinks stall is one of the easiest ways to raise money at an autumn fair. Set up a decorated stand offering hot chocolate, mulled apple juice, and warming spiced drinks.
Important note for UK organisers: in the UK, 'cider' is an alcoholic drink. Do not serve cider at a school fair, use cloudy apple juice or mulled apple juice (warmed with cinnamon sticks and cloves) instead. Any alcoholic drinks, such as mulled wine for an adults-only section, require a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) from your local council under the Licensing Act 2003. Apply at least 10 working days in advance. Most PTAs sidestep this entirely by keeping the fair alcohol-free or running any alcohol through a licensed vendor.
Setup instructions:
Set up a decorated stand with insulated drink dispensers.
Offer toppings such as whipped cream, caramel sauce, and cinnamon sticks.
Sell drinks individually or offer a reusable autumn-themed mug for discounted refills.
Sell a reusable autumn mug for £5; refills are included all evening.
Set up a selfie station next to the drinks stall, guests donate £1 to pose with their mulled apple juice at a cosy autumn backdrop.
Run a 'golden cup' raffle where one random cup has a special mark inside for a free festival prize.
24. Autumn family barbecue
Bring on the hot dogs, burgers, and autumn comfort foods to gather families and pupils together. This is also a great moment to add an optional donation opportunity, reminding families how community support keeps these events going.
Setup instructions:
Set up a grill station and a buffet-style serving area.
Offer meal deals with a main, a side, and a drink.
Provide a donation station and raffle ticket bundles nearby.
Required materials:
Grill, propane or charcoal, grilling tools.
Hot dogs, burgers, veggie options, buns, condiments.
Side dishes such as coleslaw and jacket wedges.
Elderflower cordial, Ribena, or warm squash as soft drinks.
Plates, cutlery, napkins, bins.
Fundraising variations:
Run a 'grill master challenge' where teams pay £5 to enter a mini barbecue cook-off and guests vote by donating to their favourite.
Invite local musicians to play while guests donate to request songs.
Add a bucket collection at the exit with a 'if you enjoyed today, please help us do it again' message.
Autumn Fair Decoration Ideas for Schools
25. Scarecrow decorating
Collect old clothes and donations from local charity shops and invite participants to create their own scarecrows. This sustainable activity using old clothes, straw, and reused materials is a hit for the whole family at an autumn fair.
Setup instructions:
Provide scarecrow bases and decorating materials.
Set up a voting area where attendees choose their favourite.
Award prizes for different categories: Funniest, Scariest, Most Creative.
Required materials:
Old clothes.
Burlap sacks or fabric for heads.
Straw or newspaper stuffing.
Wooden stakes, twine, markers, and glue.
Fundraising variations:
Auction winning scarecrows to local businesses or families to display outside their homes.
Charge £1 to have your photo taken with the funniest scarecrow.
Invite local businesses to pay to have their logo printed on a scarecrow's outfit.
26. Autumn wreaths
Ask volunteers to decorate and hang wreaths with autumn colours, foliage, and seasonal scents on the school's doors, walls, and entryways. This craft also gives families a beautiful keepsake or handmade gift to take home.
Setup instructions:
Provide pre-made wreath bases with decorating supplies.
Offer a guided craft station with hot glue guns and floral wire.
Sell finished wreaths or charge per crafting session.
Required materials:
Grapevine or wire wreath bases.
Artificial leaves, berries, ribbons, pine cones.
Hot glue guns, floral wire, scissors.
Fundraising variations:
Attendees vote for their favourite wreath by placing a donation into a labelled jar next to each entry.
Invite businesses to sponsor a wreath feature, with their name on the finished piece sold at auction.
Sell DIY wreath kits as a make-and-take item for families to finish at home.
27. Twinkling lights
A memorable and enjoyable experience can be as simple as hanging lanterns and twinkling lights to brighten your school grounds and create a festive atmosphere. The school car park is a great space to transform for the whole family.
Setup instructions:
Hang string lights, pumpkins, and autumn decorations across the space.
Offer a photo booth with seasonal props nearby.
Charge per printed or digital photo.
Required materials:
String lights, lanterns, autumn garlands.
Hay bales, pumpkins, and rustic backdrops.
Photo props.
Camera or smartphone setup.
Fundraising variations:
Offer a VIP photo pass for unlimited photo-booth access, designated by a coloured wristband.
Run themed photo-booth options: autumn leaves, Halloween spookiness, or cosy fireside.
28. Haunted festival
It would not be an autumn fundraiser without a little spookiness. Since autumn brings Halloween, decorate your fair with spooky props and invite teachers and parent volunteers to dress up in costumes to create a haunted trail or haunted house experience.
Setup instructions:
Designate areas for haunted attractions such as a haunted house, spooky trail, or scare zone.
Decorate with fog machines, eerie lighting, and spooky props.
Sell entry tickets for haunted experiences and themed activities.
Required materials:
Fog machines, black lights, Halloween decorations.
Costumes for staff and volunteers.
Sound effects, spooky music, props.
Entry tickets or wristbands.
Fundraising variations:
Run a 'scare for a cause' event where volunteers count how many times guests scream, charging £1 per scream donated to the school fund.
Add a spooky fortune teller booth charging donations for fun (clearly fictional) fortunes.
Autumn Harvest Raffle Ideas
Before you run a raffle: the UK rules
Running a raffle at your school autumn fair is a fantastic fundraiser, but it is legally a lottery under the Gambling Act 2005, so it is important to know the rules before you sell a single ticket.
Incidental non-commercial lottery (most school fairs): if you sell tickets and draw the winner entirely on the day of the event, no registration with your local council is required. This is the simplest route for most PTAs. You cannot roll tickets over to another event.
Small society lottery (tickets sold in advance): if you sell raffle tickets before the event, you must register as a small society lottery with your local licensing authority (council). The initial registration fee is £40, with a £20 annual renewal. Key limits apply: a single draw cannot exceed £20,000 in ticket sales; the annual total across all your lotteries cannot exceed £250,000; at least 20% of proceeds must go to the cause; and the maximum single prize is £25,000. See the Gambling Commission's small society lottery guidance for full details.
Gift Aid does not apply to raffle tickets. Because the purchaser receives something in return (a chance to win), raffle ticket sales count as payment for goods or services under HMRC rules, which means they are not eligible for Gift Aid. Encourage donors to make a separate voluntary donation if they want to Gift Aid their contribution.
Our recommendation for most school PTAs: keep it simple. Sell and draw on the day (incidental non-commercial lottery) and avoid the registration requirement altogether. If you want to sell tickets in advance to boost income, register with your council at least a few weeks before the fair.
27. Autumn hamper
A beautifully arranged autumn hamper makes a wonderful raffle prize. Fill it with seasonal treats such as pumpkin spice candles, artisan chutneys, quality biscuits, loose-leaf tea, and warming hot cocoa.
Setup instructions:
Collect or purchase autumn-themed hamper items.
Arrange items in a decorative basket with tissue paper and ribbon.
Sell raffle tickets throughout the event and draw on the day.
Required materials:
Autumn candles, chutneys, biscuits, tea, and hot cocoa.
Decorative hamper basket and wrapping materials.
Fundraising variations:
Run a 'selfie with the hamper' challenge, guests donate £1 to pose with the prize and share on social media.
Offer a raffle ticket with every hot drink purchase to encourage participation.
Offer a themed 'autumn surprise a week' as a prize, one lucky winner receives a small autumn treat each week throughout October.
28. Autumn family day out hamper
Looking for a fun family raffle basket? Combine tickets to local pick-your-own farms, National Trust properties, farm shop vouchers, autumn snacks, and activities for everyone to enjoy.
Setup instructions:
Partner with local farms, National Trust outlets, and event venues for donated or discounted tickets.
Assemble a themed basket with treats and autumn essentials.
Sell raffle tickets before and during the fair.
Required materials:
PYO farm, National Trust, or local attraction tickets.
Autumn snacks such as toffee apples, caramel fudge, and mulled apple juice mix.
Family activity ideas such as an autumn scavenger hunt kit or leaf-pressing craft set.
Fundraising variations:
Include autumn family photo sessions as a prize option, low cost and great for getting the whole family involved.
Add a mystery adventure option where winners choose between two autumn experiences, with a higher-priced ticket for entry.
29. Outdoor fire pit kit
Bonfires are a cherished autumn tradition, and your school's autumn fair can raffle off an outdoor fire pit kit with marshmallow roasting sticks, gourmet toasted marshmallow ingredients, a cosy blanket, and garden chairs, perfect timing ahead of Bonfire Night.
Setup instructions:
Gather fire pit accessories and arrange them in a festive display.
Run a toasted marshmallow challenge with a prize for the best creation, using donations as votes.
Offer a hot chocolate add-on for an additional raffle entry.
Include a 'fire and stars' astronomy guide for a Bonfire Night stargazing experience.
30. Autumn walks and adventure pack
Put together a bundle of hiking gear, picnic essentials, a thermos for hot drinks, and an Ordnance Survey walking map or National Trust membership for your more adventurous families.
Setup instructions:
Gather quality hiking gear and autumn-friendly accessories.
Create an appealing adventure-themed display.
Sell raffle tickets throughout the event.
Required materials:
Hiking rucksack, reusable water bottles.
Thermos for hot drinks, picnic blanket.
Ordnance Survey map, National Trust membership card or walking trail guides.
Fundraising variations:
Offer a mystery trail prize where winners receive a surprise guided walk or similar experience.
Build in a step challenge fundraiser where attendees track their walking steps and invite friends and family to sponsor them via a peer-to-peer campaign.
31. Family game night package
A game night basket is a fun and universally appealing raffle prize. Include board games, card games, puzzles, and activity books suitable for different ages.
Setup instructions:
Gather a variety of family-friendly games.
Arrange them in a themed basket with snacks and cosy accessories.
Sell raffle tickets throughout the event.
Required materials:
Classic board games such as Monopoly, Scrabble, and Cluedo.
Card games, puzzles, and activity books.
Popcorn, sweets, and cosy blankets.
Fundraising variations:
Add a 'spin the wheel for extra entries' station where attendees donate to spin a prize wheel for bonus raffle tickets.
Have guests vote on the most popular game; correct guesses earn a bonus entry.
Feature the winning family on the PTA's social media for a bit of fun community recognition.
Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme (GASDS): if your PTA is HMRC-recognised, you can claim a 25% top-up on small cash or contactless donations of up to £30 per donation without needing a written Gift Aid declaration. The GASDS cap is £8,000 per tax year in eligible small donations. This is perfect for bucket collections and tap-to-pay tips at your fair, though not for raffle ticket sales. See HMRC's Gift Aid guidance for full details.
A note on cash: most families no longer carry cash to community events. Make sure you have a tap-to-pay solution at every stall. Zeffy's free card-reader option is one route; SumUp and Zettle are also popular paid alternatives with portable card readers.
Community Engagement Ideas for Autumn Fairs
32. Storytelling circle
A storytelling circle creates a space for community members to share stories, memories, and traditions about autumn and your local area. Set up hay bales around a campfire for a warm and atmospheric experience. A spooky storytelling circle can also be a brilliant addition to a haunted trail.
Setup instructions:
Set up hay bales or blankets around a small fire pit or lantern display.
Invite a local storyteller or community member to share tales.
Charge a small entry fee or accept donations.
Required materials:
Fire pit or lanterns for atmosphere.
Seating such as hay bales, blankets, or chairs.
Story prompt cards for guests who want to participate.
Fundraising variations:
Charge £1 to contribute a funny or spooky autumn story.
Sell snacks and hot chocolate nearby to raise more during the session.
33. Meet the MP or local councillor
Invite local public figures to your autumn fair, the local MP, ward councillor, town mayor, a local author, or a community sports personality. This gives pupils and parents a chance to ask questions and learn about upcoming community initiatives.
Setup instructions:
Reach out to your local MP, ward councillor, mayor, or a well-known local personality.
Set up a meet-and-greet area or a short panel session.
Offer donation-based Q&A or charge for VIP access photos.
Required materials:
Chairs and a table for guest speakers.
A microphone or portable speaker if needed.
A photo backdrop and autograph area.
Fundraising variations:
Host an 'ask me anything' session and charge a small donation per question.
Sell premium access for photos with the guests.
Invite attendees to vote on a fun local initiative with small donations.
34. Farmers' market corner
Set up a mini farmers' market at your autumn fair. Invite local farmers, artisans, and WI (Women's Institute) branches to offer fresh produce, homemade jams, baked goods, and autumn crafts. If you can partner with a FARMA-accredited farm shop nearby, even better.
Setup instructions:
Partner with local farmers, artisans, and WI branches for donated or discounted products.
Arrange stalls or tables showcasing fresh produce, jams, baked goods, and autumn decorations.
Charge vendors a stall fee or request a small percentage of sales.
Required materials:
Tables, gazebos, and signs for each vendor.
Autumn-themed decorations such as pumpkins, hay bales, and rustic crates.
Payment options including tap-to-pay, cash, and donation jars.
Fundraising variations:
Add a local apple juice or apple cider vinegar tasting (non-alcoholic) from nearby farms.
Offer a VIP early access pass for an additional donation to reach the best produce before it sells out.
35. Autumn astronomy night
Invite pupils and parents to view autumn constellations such as Andromeda, Cassiopeia, and Pegasus. Offer a guided tour of the night sky led by a local astronomer or science teacher. Serve hot chocolate and include telescope viewing if available.
Setup instructions:
Partner with a local astronomer or your school's science department for guided constellation tours.
Set up telescopes and seating in an open area.
Charge an entry fee and offer hot chocolate or glow-in-the-dark souvenirs for additional donations.
Required materials:
Telescopes, star maps, and laser pointers.
Blankets, camping chairs, or hay bales.
Hot chocolate station and glow sticks for atmosphere.
Fundraising variations:
Let attendees donate to 'name a star' and receive a fun personalised certificate.
Combine with a spooky storytelling circle for a 'starlit stories' evening with a single entry fee.
36. Community performances
Add live entertainment to your fair with performances by local bands, dance troupes, drama groups, and school choirs.
Setup instructions:
Invite school bands, community performers, and pupil groups to take part.
Set up a stage or performance area with lighting and seating.
Sell tickets for premium seating and offer donation-based general admission.
Required materials:
Stage, microphones, and speakers.
Lighting and audience seating.
Fundraising table with donation jars and any merchandise.
Fundraising variations:
Invite the audience to donate to request their favourite songs.
Offer a vote for the best act and a meet-and-greet opportunity with performers.
37. Community art project
Engage pupils and families with a large-scale art project. Ideas include a mural, a community quilt, or a sculpture made from eco-friendly materials.
Setup instructions:
Choose an art project representing the school community (mural, quilt, or sculpture).
Set up a designated area where attendees can contribute.
Auction the final piece or sell sections of the artwork as donation incentives.
Required materials:
Canvas, paints, brushes, or fabric for a quilt.
Tables and chairs for participants.
Signage explaining the project and donation opportunities.
Fundraising variations:
Run a 'sponsor a brushstroke' event where guests donate to paint a section.
Host a silent auction for the finished piece.
Sell personalised art prints of the final work.
38. Costume contest
Costumes bring the whole school community together for some friendly Halloween fun. Invite children, pupils, and families to compete for the best costume. Creativity and teamwork can shine through fundraising ideas like this one.
Setup instructions:
Set up a contest area with a runway or judging panel.
Create categories such as Most Creative, Best DIY, Funniest, Scariest.
Charge a small entry fee and offer prizes for each category winner.
Required materials:
Stage or designated contest area.
Prize packages for category winners.
Judges or voting ballots.
Fundraising variations:
Have spectators donate to vote for their favourite costume.
Offer a photo experience and charge for professional or themed costume portraits.
Bonus: How to build curriculum into your autumn harvest ideas
It is always valuable to add educational content to the fun. Here are three ideas to get your creativity flowing based on your pupils and curriculum.
STEM pumpkin catapult challenge
Turn physics and engineering into hands-on fun. Set up a pumpkin (or mini gourd) catapult station where pupils design and test different launch mechanisms. Incorporate lessons on force, angles, and trajectory, making it an exciting way to blend science with seasonal fun.
Harvest history scavenger hunt
Teach pupils about the origins of autumn traditions, from harvest festivals to Remembrance Sunday, with an interactive scavenger hunt. Place historical facts around the fair and have participants answer questions or collect stamps to win prizes, bringing history to life through exploration.
Farm-to-table maths and cooking station
Set up a stall where children use measurements and fractions to prepare simple autumn treats such as apple juice or pumpkin parfaits. This hands-on approach turns maths into a delicious learning experience while reinforcing real-world applications of numbers and proportions.
Sell autumn fair tickets for free on Zeffy
Autumn fairs bring images of pumpkin patches, costume parades, and children having fun over delicious seasonal treats. Autumn events help your community enjoy the season with creative ideas and festive decorations.
As you plan your next school autumn fair, save more money with Zeffy's free event ticketing tool. No platform fees, no transaction fees, ever. Zeffy also handles donation pages and raffle tools, so you can manage your whole autumn fair in one place and keep 100% of what you raise. Gift Aid handling is built in for eligible donations, so your PTA can make every pound go further.
It depends on when you sell the tickets. If you sell and draw the raffle entirely on the day of the event, it qualifies as an incidental non-commercial lottery under the Gambling Act 2005 and requires no registration. If you sell tickets in advance, you must register as a small society lottery with your local council (£40 initial fee, £20 annual renewal). See the Gambling Commission's guidance for full details.
No. Gift Aid does not apply to raffle ticket purchases because the buyer receives something in return (a chance to win a prize), which counts as payment for goods or services under HMRC rules. You can, however, encourage attendees to make a separate voluntary donation, which is eligible for Gift Aid if your PTA is a registered charity with HMRC recognition.
Not necessarily, but registration unlocks important benefits including Gift Aid. PTAs in England and Wales with annual income above £5,000 must register with the Charity Commission. Scottish PTAs register with OSCR regardless of income. Northern Ireland PTAs register with CCNI. Registered PTAs can reclaim 25p for every £1 donated by a UK taxpayer via Gift Aid.
Yes. Selling alcohol at a school fair requires a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) from your local council under the Licensing Act 2003. You must apply at least 10 working days before the event. Most PTAs keep their fair alcohol-free to avoid this requirement, or partner with a licensed vendor for any adult sections.
Classic UK fete games work brilliantly: tombola, coconut shy, hook a duck, pumpkin skittles, pumpkin ring toss, and guess the sweets in the jar. These are simple to set up, cheap to run, and appeal to all ages. For families with young children, hook a duck and the leaf pile jump are particularly popular.
Most families attending community events in the UK no longer carry cash regularly. Make sure every stall has a tap-to-pay solution. Zeffy offers free card-reader functionality for registered charities; SumUp and Zettle are popular paid alternatives with portable card readers for door and stall sales.
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Look for people who attend related events, follow relevant Facebook groups, or subscribe to aligned newsletters.These aren’t just potential donors—they’re your future advocates.
Look for people who attend related events, follow relevant Facebook groups, or subscribe to aligned newsletters.These aren’t just potential donors—they’re your future advocates.
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