Charity golf day fundraising ideas

Also known as "foursomes," this format sees two players share one ball, taking alternate shots. It's great for keeping play moving and works well for mixed-ability pairs. Charge an entry fee per team and offer prizes for the winning pair.

This format is particularly popular for couples' competitions or parent-and-child events, making it a brilliant way to bring different generations together for a good cause.

In best ball (or "better ball"), each player in a team plays their own ball, but only the best score on each hole counts towards the team total. It's a relaxed, social format that works brilliantly for charity events because it keeps everyone involved regardless of skill level.

Teams of 2-4 work well, and you can charge per player or per team. Consider adding a "worst ball" category too for a bit of fun - the highest score on each hole counts!

A scramble is one of the most beginner-friendly formats. All team members tee off, then the team chooses the best shot and everyone plays their next shot from that spot. This continues until the ball is holed.

Scrambles are fast, fun, and keep everyone engaged. They're perfect for corporate golf days or events where not everyone is an experienced golfer. Charge an entry fee per team and consider adding on-course challenges to boost fundraising.

Challenge yourself (or a group) to play as many holes as possible from sunrise to sunset. Participants collect sponsorship based on the number of holes completed - similar to a sponsored walk, but on the fairway.

This works brilliantly as a solo challenge or small team event. Share your progress on social media throughout the day to encourage last-minute donations, and make sure you've got plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen!

Combine your golf event with a classic fundraiser - a bake sale. Ask club members, participants, or local businesses to donate cakes, biscuits, and treats, then sell them before or after your round.

Set up a table near the clubhouse or first tee, and don't forget to label any allergens clearly. Bake sales are a simple way to add extra funds to your golf day with minimal effort.

Not everyone plays golf, but almost everyone enjoys crazy golf! Set up a mini putting competition in your office, school, or community space using makeshift obstacles. Charge an entry fee and award prizes for the best (and worst) scores.

Make it even more fun by adding a fancy dress theme - think golf legends, loud golf trousers, or retro sportswear. It's a lighthearted way to get non-golfers involved and raise money at the same time.

A golf ball drop is a crowd-pleasing raffle-style fundraiser. Sell numbered golf balls (£5-£10 each), then drop them all from a height onto a green or target area. The ball that lands closest to the hole (or a marked spot) wins a prize.

You can run this as part of a larger golf day or as a standalone event. It's easy to organise, fun to watch, and generates great fundraising buzz. Make sure you've got permission from your course and a safe way to release the balls!

Sell mulligans - a second chance to replay a shot - before or during your tournament. Players can buy a set number (usually 3-5) for around £5-£10, giving them a safety net for tricky holes.

It's a simple add-on that boosts fundraising without complicating your event. Make sure the rules are clear: mulligans usually can't be used on the final hole or in playoff situation.

Add excitement to your golf day with on-course challenges:

• Longest drive: Measure the furthest tee shot on a designated hole

• Nearest the pin: Closest approach shot to the flag wins

• Straightest drive: Reward accuracy over distance

• Beat the pro: Challenge a club professional to a closest-to-the-pin contest (£5 entry, winner takes all or splits with charity)

Offer prizes donated by local businesses or pro shops. These mini-competitions keep energy high and create additional fundraising opportunities.

Experienced golfer? Offer your services as a caddy for the day in exchange for a donation. You could carry bags, offer course advice, or simply provide encouragement and company.

This works particularly well if you're a club member or have local course knowledge. Promote your caddy service on social media and through your network - people often appreciate the personal touch.

Not every golf fundraiser has to involve playing! Host a quiz night in your clubhouse with golf-themed rounds, general knowledge, and a raffle. Charge an entry fee per team (£20-£40 for a team of 4) and sell refreshments throughout the evening.

Quiz nights are sociable, accessible, and bring the whole club community together - including non-playing partners and families. For tips on running a great quiz, check out our guide to organising a charity quiz.

Finish your golf day with a raffle or auction. Ask local businesses, club members, and sponsors to donate prizes - think golf equipment, vouchers, rounds of golf, or experiences like spa days or meals out.

Sell raffle tickets throughout the day and draw winners during a post-event gathering. Auctions work brilliantly for high-value items and create a fun, competitive atmosphere. The more prizes you have, the more you'll raise.

No course nearby, or rain on the forecast? A golf simulator fundraiser lets anyone play a famous course indoors, whatever the weather. Ask a local simulator venue or golf club to donate a bay for an evening, then charge per player or run a longest drive or nearest the pin competition. It works well in winter, or for an office team who have never picked up a club.