Recently we ran across an article that talked about SUNY Orange hosting a Murder Mystery Party Fundraiser. They are charging $40 for tickets which will include wine, hors d’oeuvres, dessert and coffee.

Check out Step by Step Fundraising to get more ideas about how to host your own murder mystery party fundraiser. Here are a few examples:

1. Figure out the logistics of the party you’ll be holding. How many people would you expect? Where will you hold it? In someone’s home, in a rental hall, a restaurant, etc.? Will the meal be catered or prepared by volunteers in your organization?

2. Decide on a theme for your party. Which theme would your guests most enjoy?

Here are a few of the games available at Dinner and a Murder:

Murder at the Four Deuces - a roaring 20’s gangster murder mystery that takes place at the Four Deuces speakeasy.

The Santa Clause - a contemporary murder mystery that takes place at the annual Christmas Party of the law firm Lie, Cheat & Steal.

Class of ‘57 - A Killer Reunion - a romantic murder mystery with a 1950’s theme that takes place at All Saints College reunion. (Designed for couples, great for Valentine’s Day)

3. Set a date.

4. Create a budget for the event. Outline all of the expenses: game cost, food, other rentals, prizes, etc. (Hint: the more you can get donated, the better!)

5. Based on the expected cost of the event, set the ticket price. Remember that guests will know that this is a charitable event. Plus, this is also more than just dinner, it’s a party! Most will be willing to pay higher than they normally would for just dinner at a restaurant.

6. When setting ticket prices, also think about what will be included in the ticket. Do you want to have a cash bar separate? Is Dessert extra? Will there be a silent auction? These “extras” could boost the funds raised for your charity and effect the price that you want to charge for the entry ticket.

7. The expenses should equal 30% or less of the total funds raised. You can raise all the funds from the ticket price, or combine with other fundraisers at the game night (like
the cash bar).

8. Finally, plan all the details that go into a party. . . decorations, invitations, tickets, costumes…this is the fun part, be creative!

9. Enjoy your Dinner and a Murder Party!