I haven't done it before - but my first suggestion would be to read the fundraising section of the discussion board - you might be able to find something there.

Next, I will tell you what I remember from previous years.

It all depends on the pub you approach. Each of them will have their own rules - how they want things done - what you can and cannot do etc.
I know that if you go to a locally owned pub, you can get away with more things - i.e. cover charge (even if it's $2-$5 it all adds up).

Usually, pubs/restaurants will allow you to come for a certain number of hours on a Monday or Tuesday night so if you can request a Thursday-Saturday fundraising event, you'll be a lot better off or better yet, if you can pick a day where there is a game on (hockey, football) you will really make some money!! :)

If you go to a franchised owned pub/restaurant you can probably ask them if they are willing to donate 5-15% of each total bill. I've also heard of servers donating some (if not all) of their tips (for the 3 hours you are in their pub/restaurant).

I've heard of some people setting up tables of PINK items (see www.thinkpinkdirect.com - Randy Mellon) and doing a raffle for a door prize (making sure their supporters arrive at the place during the time required for you to get a portion of their total bill).

Hope this helps.

I would also suggest approaching the manager/owner of the pub with your own ideas because you never know, they might bend the rules for you! :)


-- Edited by Ashley Costa on Thursday 1st of October 2009 07:32:31 AM

Here is what my walking coach <who rocks btw!> sent to me when I emailed her with a request for information about a pub night.

Pub night how-to...

Hosting a pub night is not only a lot of fun but will really excite your guests to partake and donate towards your fundraising goal! 

Step 1 Pick a location, look around your neighbourhood for a pub that might be willing to allow you use of their facility (a weeknight or Sunday when business is slower will probably be a good start)

Step 2 - Approach them with a participant letter which you can receive from your walker coach, this identifies you to them as a registered walker and has our charitable tax number on it. Let them know what youre raising money for and how your pub night will benefit them (see ways to make money at your pub night below)

Step 3 Pick a date. The type of party youre planning will determine the month and maybe even the exact date (themed pub nights are great too, see a list of ideas below). Try to plan at least a month in advance so everyone is able to make it!

Step 4 Create a guest list and send out invitations. The more the merrier depending on the pubs size so tell friends or family to bring guests!

By Email:  For free email invitations try www.evite.com. This site allows you to personalize your invitations with pictures and all the specifics of your party. You will even receive emails when people RSVP or view the invitation.

By Mail: If your guests dont use email, send them a personalized invitation in the mail. Be sure to ask for an RSVP at least a week prior to the party so you dont overbuy any of the needed supplies.

Step 5 Put your plan on paper.
- Make a list of everything you will need to buy and do for the party
- Research what items you might be able to have donated and use things you already have (i.e. ask a decorating store to supply some balloons, if you dont ask you will never know)
- Set a reasonable budget and research where you can find your materials for a lesser cost

Step 6 Party Day
-Arrive at the pub an hour before or at an agreed upon time with the owner to set up. Smile and have fun J

Ways of raising money at your pub night:
- charge a cover at the door, if its $10 or higher your guests can receive a tax receipt for it
- ask the pub to donate a portion of any drinks and/or meals purchased that night to the cause this amount is up to them but if you promise to bring in a large crowd on a slow night it will be worth their while
- raffle off a donated item (i.e. basket of goodies) and charge $2-5 a ticket
- always have donation forms handy and your personal page open on a computer so people can donate online (play the 2008 commemorative DVD for those who dont know much about the event, it may inspire to them to donate even more to the cause)

*List of common pub-night themes:
- sports (i.e. NHL Playoffs, NFL Super Bowl)
- holiday party (i.e. Christmas, Hanukah, Easter, Valentines Day, St. Pattys etc.)
- pink party (i.e.  ask the bartender to provide pink martinis, ask people dress in pink, pink decor)
- entertainment party, most pubs have big TVs now for big events (The Oscars, Golden Globes etc.)
- bra party (have all the ladies and men wear a decorated bra over their clothing, a fun and subtle reminder of why they are there and what theyre supporting, offer a prize to the best decorated one)

I am in the process of trying to get one off the ground. I will post any issues/success stories so that you do not have to re-invent the entire wheel.