Ideas for Fete Stalls

Updated July 19, 2017

Fetes are a way of raising money for various causes, particularly schools and churches. Summer and Christmas are the most popular times to hold fetes, but there are plenty of ideas for stalls that have moneymaking potential at any time of year. Stalls need to appeal to a range of visitors to keep everyone entertained. Required licences and safety regulations remain the responsibility of the fete organiser.

Cake and Bake

A "Cake and Bake" stall is an easy way to make money at fetes, as it is popular with all visitors. Asking parents, grandparents, teachers and volunteers to bake cakes and cookies to sell makes the stall inexpensive and easy to set up. Ensure all items are priced clearly.

Baked Bean Bath

The volunteer "victim" sits in a bathtub or paddling pool and waits for visitors to come and buy a can of baked beans to pour over him/her. It is important to use safety goggles as beans have a high salt content, so can cause stinging to the eyes. This stall usually generates more money if the 'victim' is a figure of authority, such as the principal or the church minister. The Fete Fun website suggests raising sponsorship before the event to make it even more profitable. Custard, jelly or creamed rice are alternatives to beans.

Face Painting

Choosing a design to have painted on their face is always popular with younger children. Have a selection already chosen and make sure that everyone involved can paint them. Superheroes, animals, fairies and butterflies are particular favourites. Use temporary tattoos or body jewels for older children.

Wet Sponges

Ask volunteers to be a "target" for wet sponges to be thrown at them -- they can either sit on a chair or in a set of stocks created by painting a large sheet of plywood and cutting out holes big enough for heads and hands. This usually works well with members of staff. Have a bucket filled with cold water and sponges. Visitors pay for a sponge and aim at the "targets," hopefully soaking them through. Provide goggles to prevent eye injuries.

Bucket Coin Drop

Decorate a bucket with Christmas tinsel, fill it with water and hide a fifty-cent piece at the bottom. Contestants drop a dime in the bucket from a distance to try and land it on the coin hidden in the bucket. Those who manage to land on the coin will win a prize, or a small sum of money. You can decorate the buckets with brightly coloured ribbon for summer, or flowers for Easter.


Refreshment stalls are always popular. Summer fetes can sell barbecued meats and soda, and winter fetes could offer hot soup and drinks. Themed refreshments would suit seasonal events -- mulled wine at Christmas, bunny-shaped cookies at Easter. Outside caterers will offer their services for a fee, but negotiate costs to keep them down.

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