What should you sell at a barbecue fundraiser?

Selling the right items at a barbecue fundraiser is essential to raise funds successfully. Here are some popular and profitable options to consider:

1. Barbecue Food:

- Hot Dogs: Everyone loves hot dogs, and they are easy to prepare and serve. Offer classic toppings such as ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, and cheese.

- Hamburgers: Another popular choice, hamburgers can be customized with various toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cheese, and sauces.

- Grilled Sausages: Bratwurst, Italian sausages, and specialty sausages are all great options. Serve them on a bun with your choice of condiments.

- Pulled Pork or Chicken: These can be slow-cooked and served on buns or as tacos.

- Barbecue Ribs: A delicious crowd-pleaser, consider different sauces, such as traditional BBQ sauce, honey-garlic sauce, or a spicy chipotle sauce.

2. Refreshments:

- Cold Drinks: Offer a variety of cold drinks, including bottled water, soft drinks, juices, and iced tea.

- Beer and Wine (if permitted): Check local regulations and permits required to sell alcoholic beverages.

- Freshly Made Lemonade: A lemonade stand can be a popular attraction, especially on hot days.

3. Desserts:

- Homemade Brownies: They are easy to make and are a favorite with kids and adults alike.

- Cookies: Offer different varieties, such as chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and peanut butter cookies.

- Ice Cream: Frozen treats are a popular choice during BBQs, consider selling pre-packed ice cream or having a cooler with ice cream bars and sandwiches on display.

- Cupcakes: Cupcakes with different flavors and toppings can be eye-catching and delicious.

4. Appetizers:

- Potato Chips: Always a crowd favorite.

- Nachos with Cheese: A simple and satisfying snack option.

- Jalapeno Poppers: These spicy bites can be homemade or store-bought.

- Pretzels with Dip: Classic pretzels paired with cheese or chocolate dipping sauces.

5. Event-Specific Items:

- Event T-Shirts: Design and sell T-shirts related to the event or the cause you're supporting.

- Hats and Sunglasses: These can be branded with your event logo and provide sun protection.

- Raffle Tickets: Offer raffles for prizes donated by local businesses or community members to generate additional funds.

- Event Bags: Create goodie bags filled with various items like snacks, drinks, and event-related merchandise.

Remember to keep your food and beverage prices reasonable while ensuring that you can make a profit to support your cause. It's also a good idea to have vegetarian or vegan options to cater to different dietary preferences. Happy fundraising!