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Fundraising for travelling and volunteering




Five top tips for planning a ceilidh


Gordon from the White Cart Ceilidh Band writes...

1) Get a venue
Local community centres and church halls are low cost options, although you would have to get a drinks license, or advertise as a BYOB (bring your own bottle). Some hotels and pubs have a reasonably sized function room which they often offer for free - they make their money at the bar. Make sure the venue is well-known and easily reached via public transport.

Dancers2) Pick a date
Give yourself time to plan and advertise. Try to find out about possible clashes with bank holidays, local events and international sporting fixtures as this might stop people from turning out for your ceilidh.

3) Book the band
Contact well ahead of time, as most bands are booked months in advance. Tell them you are organising a fundraiser and ask if they would offer a discount. Make sure the band supplies all their own PA equipment and ensure that they have a ‘caller’ - someone who explains the dance steps before each dance, if necessary.

4) Advertise
Use local press to your advantage - send information for their ‘What’s On’ sections or contact them and see if they will run a feature on your venture. Make flyers or posters and post them in shops, sports centres and doctors’ waiting rooms. Always include a name and number for queries.

5) Ensure the night runs smoothly (and profitably!)
On the night set up the hall with tables and chairs around the dance floor. When it comes to decorating up, feel free to be creative. Have teams of your mates organised to take money at the door, coordinate food and tidy up at the end. A buffet is always welcome and can be organised easily by voluntary contributions. A raffle will add to your funds too - have tickets on sale and invite prize donations from local businesses, shops and friends and give plenty of opportunity for ticket sales.

Remember, a great ceilidh band will lead your guests through the night. You just need to get as many people through the door as you can!

Further info

Click here >> to read about a successful ceilidh
Click here >> to book the White Cart Ceilidh Band for your event
Click here >> for more fundraising ideas

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