Bingo is popular all around the world. It’s a really sociable game, lots of fun and easy to organise and makes a great fundraiser for churches, schools, sports clubs and work places.
Choosing your venue
This of course depends on how many people you think you will attract to your event. Church halls, school halls, pubs or social clubs are ideal. Most bingo nights will include some form of refreshment so you need to factor in catering facilities and a bar if you require one.
Food
This can take many forms depending on the culinary abilities of your group and the facilities at your venue. It is good to include some form of refreshment however to make a real night of it.
Often tickets for the Bingo Night can be sold to include some kind of meal.
Things that can be cooked by volunteers in advance and then reheated at the venue are ideal. How about: Curry, Chilli Con Carne, Pizza or Spaghetti Bolognaise
Drinks
You will need to offer some form of drink be it soft drinks, alcohol or simple teas and coffees.
With alcohol sometimes it’s easier to perhaps offer food but allow the venue to supply the bar.
Another simple option is to have a BYOB (bring your own bottle) system; this also can get you around licensing requirements. Don’t forget to state this on your tickets and advertising.
The Bingo Cards
Bingo cards can be easily purchased online or from charity supply companies.
It is not too difficult however to make and print your own using a simple grid system. 10 – 14 numbers per card is normal. Most bingo sets use numbers 1 to 100.
It is normal to keep things in numerical order as you move either across or down the card. Some people like to purchase extra cards and will be marking off several at once so this keeps things easy. Whatever cards you use have plenty of pens on hand for people to use.
The Bingo Caller
Choosing the right Bingo Caller is very important and can make or break your evening. You need someone reasonably authoritative but who can also make the night good-natured and fun.
Bingo Lingo
It is traditional and greatly adds to the fun if the caller uses particular calls for certain numbers. You can learn them online by visitinghttp://www.apennyearned.co.uk/bingo-terms
Prizes
This is really up to you and depends on the nature of your event. Most charity bingo events are however played for the fun of it and your prizes should reflect this. Funny prizes can add to the success of the evening. You may like to ask for donated prizes in advance or buy in suitable items.
How To Make Money From A Bingo Night
You can charge for the evening in various ways. Some organisations prefer an all in price for the evening which will include a card for every game and refreshments. Others prefer to charge per game. Always offer the option of purchasing extra cards as a way of boosting the night’s takings.
Do make sure that all your other usual fundraisers, such as items for sale, are on offer during the night. A raffle is also a must and is an extra bit of fun for the middle of the evening.
Good Luck!