Join the celebration: Fairs & festivals that help fundraise for veterans

Step into a world of camaraderie and community with the Fraternal Order of American Veterans. Our fairs and festivals are more than just events; they are vibrant gatherings that support our missions and bring together veterans, their families, and the community. Discover the joy, connection, and purpose in every celebration.

Community spirit: Our diverse events

Our fundraising through fairs and festivals spans from lively large-scale community carnivals to intimate, niche seasonal celebrations. These events generate vital revenue through ticket sales, vendor fees, sponsorships, and engaging activities like auctions and games. We host a variety of gatherings:

  • Community fairs & carnivals: Bringing together low-cost, high-engagement activities for a broad local audience, including traditional carnivals with rides, games, and entertainers.
  • Street fairs & block parties: Often free to enter, raising funds through vendor booth fees, beer and wine gardens, and merchandise sales.
  • Multicultural & cultural festivals: Celebrating diversity with international food stalls, talent showcases, and traditional music and dance.
  • Field days: Family-friendly events in local parks featuring nostalgic games like three-legged races and tug-of-war.

Themed celebrations: Unique experiences

We leverage specific seasons and interests to create truly unique experiences for veterans and their families:

  • Food & drink festivals: From cook-off competitions (chili, BBQ, baking) where attendees taste and vote, to ticketed craft beer or wine tasting events partnered with local establishments. We also host simple, high-margin ice cream socials, perfect for summer!
  • Art & craft fairs: Featuring maker's markets where artisans can sell their creations, and chalk art festivals where participants create temporary masterpieces for the community.
  • Seasonal celebrations: Enjoy spring/summer kite flying festivals, garden tours, and outdoor movie nights. In the fall, explore pumpkin patch pop-ups with hayrides and corn mazes, or harvest-themed fairs. Winter brings holiday markets with local vendors, Santa visits, and cozy hot chocolate stations.

Ways to engage: Fun & fundraising

Individual attractions within our festivals significantly boost our fundraising efforts and offer exciting opportunities for everyone:

  • Charity auctions: Participate in live and silent auctions for donated items or "priceless" local experiences.
  • Festival games: Enjoy low-cost options like "guess how many" jars, "duck-free balloon pop" using beanbags, or "lucky lei" blacklight games.
  • Dunk tanks: Take a turn dunking a local personality or volunteer for a good cause.
  • Service-based booths: Support us through small donations for face painting, temporary hair coloring, or "rent-a-skill" services.

We want you to feel the strong sense of community and purpose that defines the Fraternal Order of American Veterans. By attending, volunteering, or contributing to our fairs and festivals, you directly support our veteran missions and foster the camaraderie that makes our organization great.

Get involved: Support our veterans

If you'd like to help out, attend, or contribute to our fairs and festivals, we make it easy! Your support helps us continue our vital work for veterans and their families. To learn more or to get involved:

  • Explore our fundraising events page for upcoming dates.
  • Consider becoming a volunteer.
  • Reach out to us directly via email at [[email]] or call [[phonenumber]].
  • Visit our website for general information.