Hosting a Successful Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser

Cornhole is a fun, family-friendly game that is gaining popularity everywhere. If you’re keen on blending fun with fundraising, look no further than a cornhole tournament fundraiser! Whether you’re a cornhole newbie or an experienced enthusiast seeking fresh ideas, here is your ultimate guide to hosting cornhole fundraisers.

What Is Cornhole?

Originating from the heartland of America, cornhole, sometimes referred to as just “bags,” is a lawn game where players (cornholers) toss bean bags at a raised platform with a hole. The goal? Score the most points by getting that bag in the hole or on the board. Simple, yet wildly addictive. 

Why Do Organizations Choose Cornhole Tournaments for Fundraising?

Cornhole isn’t just a game; it’s an experience waiting to be shared. That’s why cornhole tournaments, also called cornaments, are a popular option for group fundraising. Let’s take a look at why people enjoy the game so much:

• Universal Appeal: Cornhole breaks down boundaries. It’s an inclusive game for people of all abilities and ages, from toddlers to grandparents.
• Cost-Effective: With minimal equipment and space, you can ensure a large portion of the event proceeds goes to your cause.
• Flexible Venues: From park grounds to school gyms, cornhole fundraisers fit almost anywhere.

How to Run a Cornhole Tournament in 6 Simple Steps

Making a cornhole fundraiser successful is all about the details. Check out our six simple steps to organize yours like a pro.

#1. Set Cornhole Tournament Goals

• Clearly lay out the goals for your cornhole tournament. Decide if it’s meant for community bonding, team spirit enhancement, as well as fundraising purposes. How much do you want to raise?
• Pick a tournament setup that matches your goals, be it a knockout series, round-robin play, or doubles team showdown.

#2.  Detailed Logistics Planning

• Create a detailed budget covering all anticipated expenses, including venue fees, catering, entertainment, prizes, marketing, and administrative costs.
• Choose a date, time, and venue that appeals to a large audience.
• Solicit donations and sponsorships from your community and supporters.

#3. Smooth Registration and Fee Collection

• Use our state-of-the-art online ticketing platform to allow teams to sign up and pay.
• Identify additional potential revenue sources like tournament sponsorships, raffles, and auctions to offset expenses. Add these to your tournament website.

#4. Clarity on Rules

• While cornhole fundraisers are simple, ensuring everyone understands the scoring is vital (see Simple Cornhole Rules for Beginners section below).

#5. Tournament Promotion

• Think flyers, social media challenges, and community outreach to get the word out.

#6. Establish Safety Protocols

• Mark out clear zones for players and spectators. A first-aid booth is a wise move, even though cornhole is safe for the whole family.

More Cornhole Tips for Organizing a Successful Fundraiser

Cornhole is easy to learn, but mastering it requires some insider secrets. Play like a champion by following these top cornhole tips and tricks of the game:

• Equipment Check: Ensure you have enough boards and bean bags for the number of participants. Regularly check equipment for wear and tear.
• Venue Layout: Define clear playing and spectator areas. Consider accessibility and ensure there is adequate space for players to throw without hindrance.
• Time Management: To avoid running over time, set a maximum duration for each match, especially if there’s a tight schedule or multiple rounds.
• Referees and Volunteers: Train a few volunteers or hire referees to oversee matches, ensuring fair play and adherence to rules.
• Food and Drinks: Cornholers get hungry! Be sure to provide food and drink options for sale or included in the ticket price. Food trucks offering various fare is a fun way to go.
• Engagement: Consider fun additions like a commentator, music, or themed rounds to amplify enjoyment and engagement.
• Wacky Team Names – A quirky team name can be the secret weapon in building camaraderie. Whether groups opt for humorous puns like “Bag to the Future” or go for straightforward cool like “Cornstar Players”, let the creativity fly by having your teams create their own cornhole team name.

Simple Cornhole Rules for Beginners

Understanding and effectively communicating the rules is essential to ensure your cornhole fundraiser runs smoothly. Keeping the rules straightforward means that everyone can quickly grasp the game and focus on the fun and fundraising.

• Team Setup: Cornhole is typically played in doubles, with teams of two. However, to add a twist or accommodate more participants, consider hosting single-player rounds as well. Also, encourage participants to brainstorm funny team names for the bags tournament.
• Goal: The primary goal is straightforward: players aim to toss their bean bags either onto the board for points or, optimally, into the hole for even more points.
• Scoring System: After each player’s turn, calculate scores. A bag resting on the board garners one point, while one in the hole secures three points. Clear signage or a scorekeeper can help keep a tally efficiently.
• Progression: Once a team accumulates 21 points with a lead of at least two points over their opponents, they emerge victorious and move on to subsequent rounds. Brackets or digital scoreboards can be used to track progression. 
• Elimination: Tournaments are generally either single or double-elimination.

Wrapping Up the Cornhole Tournament

As the last bean bags hit the boards and your cornhole tournament fundraiser comes to a close, it’s crucial to wind down the event with flair and gratitude. Here’s how to conclude your tournament successfully and leave a lasting impression:

• Express Appreciation: Thank everyone involved—participants, sponsors, volunteers, and staff—for their invaluable contributions to the event’s success.
• Share Success Stories: Highlight on your website and social media how the funds raised will impact the community, emphasizing the significance of the tournament’s contributions.
• Collect Feedback: Encourage feedback from all involved. This input is vital for refining future tournaments.
• Reflect and Plan: Post-event, evaluate the tournament’s strengths and areas for enhancement, setting the stage for even better future fundraisers.

---

Final Thoughts on Running a Cornhole Fundraiser

Beyond the game, a cornhole tournament fundraiser strengthens bonds, champions causes, and crafts lasting memories for participants. So why not run a cornhole fundraiser with free online registration?

Create a free account and see how we can help your organization smash your fundraising goals!

Start Fundraising

P2P Crowdfunding

Auctions

Golf Tournaments

Online Stores

Ticketing

Sweepstakes

Donations

Raffle Fundraising