Welcome to our list of the best fundraiser entertainment ideas of 2025. Whether you’re organizing a nonprofit gala, charity auction, or donor appreciation event, the right entertainment can transform your fundraiser from ordinary to unforgettable.
Fundraiser entertainment ideas go beyond music and décor—they’re about creating emotionally resonant, immersive experiences that drive donations and keep attendees talking long after the event. From interactive auctions to celebrity keynotes, the right entertainment elevates your event, builds community engagement, and maximizes fundraising potential.
The following ideas are proven to captivate audiences, energize donors, and align seamlessly with your organization’s mission. Bonus: each concept is paired with top talent from the Mollie Plotkin Group, making it easy to execute a show-stopping event.
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1. Casino Night or Speakeasy Theme
A roaring twenties speakeasy or glitzy Vegas casino theme brings instant glamour and excitement to any fundraiser. Rent gaming tables with professional dealers, offer chips in exchange for donations, and reward the highest chip holders with exclusive prizes. Pair the setup with jazz or swing bands, flapper dancers, and themed cocktails to create a fully immersive experience.
Why it works:
- Offers a fun, interactive experience that donors love.
- Appeals to sponsors with branding opportunities (e.g., custom chips or tables).
- Provides multiple donation pathways throughout the night.
Recommended Talent from Mollie Plotkin Group: Include live jazz or big band acts from MPG’s entertainment roster or bring in a magician like David Kwong or John Stessel to entertain guests between games with sleight-of-hand and puzzles that amaze.
2. Celebrity or Motivational Speaker Appearance
There’s no better way to generate buzz—and ticket sales—than by hosting a fireside chat or keynote with a recognizable speaker. Choose someone whose personal journey aligns with your cause. For example, book Vince Papale to speak about overcoming odds, Mandy Rennehan to highlight entrepreneurship, or Mel Robbins for life-changing personal growth.
Why it works:
- Adds star power and media appeal.
- Builds emotional connections with your cause.
- Inspires guests and reinforces the impact of your mission.
Recommended Talent from Mollie Plotkin Group: For sports-focused events, consider icons like Tom Brady or Saquon Barkley to captivate your audience and drive attendance.
3. Live Auction with Interactive Entertainment
Move beyond the traditional gavel and bring energy to your auction with an entertaining emcee or comedian. Interlace auction segments with short performances—music, magic, or improv—to keep your audience excited and bidding enthusiastically.
Why it works:
- Turns your auction into a full-on show.
- Keeps momentum high throughout the event.
- Boosts bids through peer engagement and humor.
Recommended Talent from Mollie Plotkin Group: Engage Dave Spadaro—a natural on the mic—to emcee the evening. Pair him with mind-bending entertainment from David Kwong for moments that delight and surprise.
4. Interactive Game Shows (e.g., “Fundraiser Feud”)
Game show-style segments are a fun and fresh way to get donors, staff, and even celebrities involved. Build custom trivia games around your organization’s mission or go with a familiar format like “Jeopardy!” or “Family Feud.” Add an emcee to guide the action and include live voting or donation-to-play mechanics.
Why it works:
- Encourages laughter and friendly competition.
- Increases audience interaction and involvement.
- Ties in naturally with themed donation rounds.
Recommended Talent from Mollie Plotkin Group: Work with an MPG host or comedian who thrives on improvisation to keep the games moving and the energy high.
5. Surprise Flash Mob or Pop-Up Performances
Catch your guests off guard (in the best way) with an unannounced acapella group, dance team, or DJ making their way through the crowd. These spontaneous moments break up the night, re-energize the room, and create share-worthy content for social media.
Why it works:
- Creates a “wow” moment that guests remember.
- Promotes online sharing, expanding your event’s reach.
- Can involve your volunteers or board for added authenticity.
Recommended Talent from Mollie Plotkin Group: Book DJ Will Gill to lead the charge with infectious energy and a soundtrack that surprises and delights. His dynamic presence turns flash mobs and pop-up performances into unforgettable event highlights.
How to Hire the Best Fundraiser Entertainment
The right fundraiser entertainment ideas can turn a good event into a fundraising powerhouse. Whether you want to dazzle donors with a casino night, inspire them with a celebrity speaker, or surprise them with a flash mob, these strategies keep your audience engaged and your mission in the spotlight.
At Mollie Plotkin Group, we make it easy to bring these ideas to life. From keynote speakers and entertainers to full event strategy, we tailor every recommendation to your goals and audience. Let us help you create a fundraiser that inspires, engages—and raises more.
Contact us today to book your next speaker or entertainment experience.
