Holiday Fundraising

Top Trends for School Holiday Shops in 2024

By on October 14, 2024   /   Holiday Fundraising  
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Top Trends for School Holiday Shops in 2024

Are you excited for this year’s school holiday shop? We are too! School holiday shops are one of the most fun ways to help schools raise money while giving students a chance to buy gifts for their families.

In 2024, we’re seeing some cool trends that are making holiday shoppes even more exciting and successful for schools with all grade levels. If you’re helping to organize your school holiday shop this year, these trends could help get the kids and families even more excited.

Want more info? Request free info from Kids Kastle for school holiday shoppes near you!

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What is a Holiday Shoppe Fundraiser?

A holiday shoppe fundraiser is an event where elementary schools set up a shop for a few days where students can come and buy small gifts for their family and friends. The cool part? Most of the gifts are affordable and perfect for young shoppers, with prices as low as $0.50 to $10!

The school benefits by keeping a portion of the sales, which goes toward fun things like field trips or new school supplies. It’s a win-win! 

Kids Kastle offers easy school holiday shops for elementary schools that cuts back on worrying about planning, inventory, and ordering, so all you need to focus on is the latest trends to help promote your school fundraiser.

School Holiday Shop Trends for 2024

Personalized Gifts

In 2024, the kids holiday shoppes are buzzing with personalized gifts. Kids love picking out gifts that feel special, and nothing says “special” more than a customized item. From keychains with their mom’s name on it to water bottles with their sibling’s initials, these personalized items are flying off the shelves. Plus, it’s a thoughtful touch that makes the giver feel proud.

Eco-Friendly Merchandise

Our planet is important, and more and more schools are taking that into consideration when planning their elementary school holiday shop. In 2024, eco-friendly merchandise is a big hit at school holiday shops. Think reusable bags, bamboo keychains, or even plant kits! 

These gifts not only make the earth happy but also show students how they can help the environment while giving awesome presents. Plus, schools and parents can even teach students a bit about going green while shopping.

More Budget-Friendly Options

One of the key trends this year in school holiday shop fundraisers is making sure everyone can join in on the fun. In the past, some kids might have felt left out if they didn’t have enough money to buy gifts. But in 2024, school holiday shops are making a point to offer even more affordable gifts without sacrificing quality.

Items like friendship bracelets, fun stickers, and cute bookmarks are some examples of gifts that cost under a dollar. These small but meaningful items let every student participate and feel like a superstar when they pick out presents for their family.

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Fun Gift Wrapping Stations

Wrapping a gift is just as fun as buying it, right? Schools are starting to embrace the magic of gift-wrapping with special stations set up inside the school holiday shop. Students can choose from colorful wrapping paper, ribbons, and stickers to decorate their gifts.

Some schools are even making this into a separate fundraising opportunity, charging a tiny fee for the wrapping station. The wrapping area becomes an exciting final stop where students feel like real holiday helpers as they package up their treasures!

Teacher and Volunteer Involvement

A holiday shop isn’t just for students—it’s a community effort! More teachers and parent volunteers are jumping in to help with the holiday shoppe fundraiser. Schools are realizing that having familiar faces guide students through the shopping process makes everything smoother.

Teachers might create fun wish lists or even offer recommendations based on what they know about their students’ families. Plus, volunteers can help at the gift-wrapping stations or guide the younger kids so they feel more confident in their gift choices. This teamwork makes the whole experience even more memorable for the kids.

Online Shopping for Parents

For 2024, many schools are introducing a modern twist: an online holiday shop for parents. While kids can still enjoy shopping at school, parents can now also order some of the same school holiday shop merchandise online. This is great for parents who want to sneak in some extra holiday shopping while supporting their school fundraiser!

Plus, it’s super convenient, especially if schools are trying to reach families who can’t make it in person. This online option means more money raised for the school while making sure everyone can join in on the holiday spirit.

Shop Themes that Spark Creativity

Imagine walking into your school’s holiday shop and feeling like you’ve stepped into a magical world! Many schools are using themed decorations to bring their holiday shops to life. Whether it’s a “Winter Wonderland” theme with snowflakes and sparkly trees or a “Santa’s Workshop” theme with elves and toy-making tools, themed shops are a big hit with the kids.

Themes make shopping extra fun, and they also encourage students to dive deeper into the holiday spirit. Plus, who wouldn’t want to shop in a winter wonderland?

Winter wonderland

Exclusive School Spirit Merchandise

Another growing trend for school holiday shop fundraisers is the inclusion of school spirit items in holiday shops. Students love showing off their school pride, and what better way than with items that feature their school’s name or mascot? From water bottles to beanies and scarves, these items are a great way to mix school pride with holiday cheer.

These exclusive items also give students a chance to buy gifts for themselves, while still contributing to the fundraiser. And of course, every time they wear or use these items, they’ll be reminded of their school and the fun holiday shop experience.

Inclusive Holiday Merchandise

Schools today celebrate many different holidays, and the 2024 trend is making sure everyone feels included. Instead of just focusing on Christmas items, holiday shoppes are featuring gifts for Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and even non-religious options. This inclusive approach makes sure that every student can find something that feels right for their family. By offering a wide range of gift options, schools can celebrate diversity and help teach kids about different cultures while still raising money.

Interactive Shopping Experience

Finally, holiday shops are becoming more interactive in 2024. Schools are incorporating games, holiday music, and even scavenger hunts to make the shopping experience more engaging. Kids don’t just shop—they get to explore, play, and have fun while picking out gifts for their families.

This interactive approach makes the holiday shop feel like more than just a fundraiser. It’s an event kids look forward to, where they can make memories with their friends and feel proud of the gifts they buy.

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Change Up Your School Holiday Shop This Year with Fun New Trends

School holiday shops are full of exciting new trends that make fundraising easier and more fun than ever before. From personalized gifts and eco-friendly merchandise to fun gift-wrapping stations and online shopping for parents, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or a parent volunteer, these trends will help make your school holiday shop a huge success!

So, if you’re ready to set up your own holiday shoppe fundraiser, remember—it’s all about making the experience enjoyable for the kids while supporting your school. Get in touch with Kids Kastle today to see how we can help your bring school holiday shop to life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a holiday shoppe fundraiser?
A holiday shoppe fundraiser is a temporary store set up at schools where students can buy affordable gifts for family and friends. The school earns a portion of the sales to help with things like school supplies, events, and trips. It’s a fun way for kids to learn about giving and for the school to raise money at the same time!

How much do the items at the holiday shop cost?
Items at a holiday shop are budget-friendly, with prices typically ranging from $0.50 to $10. There’s always something for everyone, no matter the budget, which helps all students feel included in the shopping experience.

What kinds of gifts are sold at the holiday shop?
The holiday shop offers a wide variety of gifts, including items like jewelry, toys, mugs, stationery, and even personalized gifts. Some shops feature eco-friendly products, school spirit merchandise, and holiday-themed gifts for Christmas, Hanukkah, and other celebrations.

Can parents get involved in the holiday shop?
Yes! Parents can help in many ways, from volunteering to set up and run the shop, to assisting kids with gift selection. Many schools also offer online shopping options so parents can purchase gifts too, even if they can’t come to the in-person event.

Do schools offer gift-wrapping services?
Many school holiday shops now feature gift-wrapping stations where students can wrap their presents after buying them. This is often a small additional fundraiser, and it’s a fun way for kids to feel extra special about the gifts they’re giving!

How can we make our holiday shop successful?
To make your holiday shop successful, focus on offering a variety of affordable and thoughtful gifts. Make the experience interactive with decorations, games, or gift-wrapping stations. Involve teachers, parents, and volunteers to create a smooth and exciting event. Most importantly, keep it fun and inclusive for all students! Contact us for more info and browse our catalog.

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How To Do a School Holiday Shop

By on August 30, 2023   /   Holiday Fundraising  
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How To Do a School Holiday Shop

A popular winter tradition in most elementary schools is the School Holiday Shop, where students can purchase small gifts for their loved ones. Children and adults alike look forward to this festivity every year, where kids get to shop, gifts can be purchased, and everyone gets to share in the merriment of the holiday season.

If you’re interested in doing a school holiday shop this year for your child’s school, our easy step-by-step guide will walk you through how to get started with a school holiday shop. We will explore creative ideas and tips for hosting your own school holiday shop, filled with delightful surprises and meaningful gifts everyone is sure to enjoy. 

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Planning and Preparation

To ensure a successful school holiday shop, careful planning and preparation are essential. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get started planning and outlining your season holiday gift shop. 

Set a Fundraising Budget

The first step in organizing a school holiday store is to determine how much money you can allocate for the event. Consider the costs of purchasing gifts, setting up the shop, and any additional decorations or activities. A well-planned budget will help you make informed decisions and ensure that the event remains financially viable. Consider seeking sponsorship or fundraising options to supplement the budget if needed.  

If you are working with a holiday shop company, like Kids Kastle, staff can help you select from pre-made packages or customize your selection for your school’s needs. 

Gather Holiday Shoppe Volunteers

After setting your budget, you will want to ensure you have the volunteers needed to help staff and run the holiday shop so it goes smoothly. Reach out to parents, teachers, and community members who would be willing to volunteer their time and expertise to help with various tasks. Having a team of volunteers is crucial for the smooth execution of the holiday shop. 

Assign responsibilities such as setting up the shop, arranging gifts, assisting students during shopping, managing finances, and organizing additional activities. Create a volunteer schedule to ensure adequate coverage throughout the event. 

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Choose a Suitable Fundraising Venue

Find a space within the school that can accommodate the holiday shop. Consider using the library, multipurpose room, or an empty classroom, depending on the available space and resources. Ensure the venue provides a comfortable and accessible shopping experience for students. Arrange the layout of the shop in a way that allows easy movement and browsing for all students. 

Determine the Duration

Decide on the duration of the holiday shop. Typically, it runs for a few days or a week leading up to the winter break. Consider the school calendar and other events taking place during that time. Choose a period that maximizes student participation and minimizes conflicts with other activities. 

Remember to communicate the dates and time clearly to students, parents, and the school community well in advance to generate excitement and ensure attendance. 

Bonus Fundraising Tips

Additionally, consider setting up a planning committee comprising teachers, parents, and volunteers. Regular meetings and open communication channels will help in coordinating tasks, sharing ideas, and addressing any challenges that may arise during the planning process.

Remember, attention to detail and thorough planning will contribute to a successful school Christmas shop ideas. By following these steps, you will lay a solid foundation for an enjoyable and memorable event. 

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Selecting Gifts

The heart of the school holiday shop lies in the carefully chosen gifts that children can purchase for their loved ones. Consider these ideas when determining which gifts will be sold at the holiday shop. 

Craft Station: Set up a craft station where students can create personalized gifts. Provide materials like paints, beads, ribbons, and markers for making handmade ornaments, keychains, or picture frames. Some select holiday shop companies also allow for customization of trinkets, ornaments, and more. 

Book Nook: Encourage a love for reading by offering a selection of age-appropriate books. Choose a variety of genres, from picture books to chapter books, to cater to different interests.

Small Toys and Trinkets: Stock up on small, affordable toys and trinkets that children can gift. Items such as puzzles, stuffed animals, pens, and mini-games are always popular choices. Kids’ Kastle Holiday Shop has many small items that are perfect purchases for Mom, Dad, and siblings. 

Holiday-themed Items: Embrace the festive spirit by including holiday-themed items like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, or elf ears. These can add a touch of fun and excitement to the shopping experience. 

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Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere

Be sure to transform the space into a warm and inviting holiday shop. The more fun the venue is, the more excited kids will be to shop and get into the holiday spirit. Remember, you want everyone to feel excitement and be ready for the holiday. 

Festive Decorations: Deck the halls with holiday decorations such as twinkling lights, garlands, and colorful banners. Create a cozy ambiance by playing cheerful music in the background. Have the kids help with decorating and banners to get them more excited in the upcoming weeks. 

Gift Wrapping Station: Set up a dedicated area for students to have their purchased gifts wrapped. Provide wrapping paper, ribbons, bows, and tape so children can add their personal touch. Be sure to stock the station with volunteers and provide a variety of wrapping paper to fit everyone’s interests and celebrations. 

Pricing and Display: Clearly label the prices of items and arrange them neatly on tables or shelves. Use baskets, jars, or holiday-themed boxes to display the gifts attractively. This will make it easier and more accessible for all children. 

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Promoting Financial Responsibility

Part of the fun of the Santa Gift Shop for Schools is that it teaches kids the value of money and how to budget while shopping. Many schools opt for a holiday shop because it easily ties into lessons kids are already learning and they can put into practice in real time. 

Price Ranges: Offer a variety of items at different price points to cater to students with various budgets. Ensure there are options for those who have limited funds to participate. Remember to not price items too high or many kids will feel left out. 

Shopping Lists: Provide students with shopping lists, including spaces for them to write down the names of the recipients and the gifts they plan to purchase. This will help them plan their budget and stay organized. 

Budgeting Lesson: Organize a brief lesson on budgeting and the importance of managing money wisely. Teach students about saving, budget allocation, and the value of thoughtful gift-giving. Pair groups of students up with a teacher who can assist them day of to stick to their budgets and planning. 

Conclusion

By hosting your own school holiday shop, you can create a memorable experience for students while fostering creativity, financial responsibility, and the spirit of giving. Through careful planning, selecting thoughtful gifts, and creating a festive atmosphere, you can provide a delightful shopping experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Embrace the joy of the holiday season and embark on this exciting venture to spread the holiday cheer in your school community. If you need assistance, contact Kids’ Kastle, where we handle everything for you and make your school holiday shop an easy experience. 

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Why Host an In-School Holiday Gift Fair

By on September 22, 2022   /   Holiday Fundraising  
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Why Host an In-School Holiday Gift Fair

Hosting an in-school holiday gift fair around the winter season can be just the exercise children need to get into the holiday spirit. Holiday gift fairs help with budgeting lessons and financial responsibility, allows children to purchase gifts for their families and friends in an accessible venue, and provides holiday cheer and merriment all around. 

So why should your school invest in a holiday gift fair this season? We delve into what it takes to host a holiday gift far and how to set up a successful Santa Gift Shop that’s friendly for all families and children. 

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What Is An In-School Holiday Gift Fair?

An in-school holiday gift fair, also known as a School Santa Shop, is a seasonal gift shop hosted by the school. It is run by teachers, parents, and volunteers, offering low-cost gifts for students to purchase for their family and friends. 

Children visit the store, set-up on school premise, under a teacher’s guidance during school hours with a list of people they plan to buy holiday gifts for. Volunteers at the in-school holiday gift fair assist kids with the purchase of items, which kids then take home for their loved ones. There can be gift wrapping stations, a variety of products to purchase, and everything is low-cost and affordable. 

Why Host An In-School Holiday Gift Fair?

While it lasts only for a few weeks, an in-school holiday gift fair is remembered by children for a long time. School Santa Shops instill confidence and independence for kids by letting them shop with their own money for gifts for their loved ones. They feel excited to tour so many items and pick out their favorites all by themselves.

If you’re wondering why host an in-school holiday gift fair, these are just a few of the many benefits: 

  • Safe and practical space to buy gifts for the holidays
  • Hone children’s organizational skills.
  • Learn about budgeting, making a purchase, and finances
  • Practice mathematical skills such as addition, subtraction, and getting change
  • Sharpen emotional skills by learning the virtues of sharing, kindness, and spreading joy

How To Get the Most From Your School Christmas Shop

The Selection of School Santa shop gifts

The gifts for your school holiday shop should be affordable, low-cost, and speak to kids. Remember, while they are buying the items for their families, they want to buy things that get them excited. A great way to think about Christmas gifts for your holiday shop is to categorize them relationship-wise.

  • Mom, Aunt, Grandma: Feature lockets, roses, bracelets, and books
  • Dad, Uncle, Granddad: Sports goodies such as balls, whistles, and trophies
  • Friends, Teachers, and Neighbors: Photo frames, mugs, and stationery items with messages of love and joy printed on them
  • Siblings: Fancy lip-glosses and purses, racecars and fidget toys, as well as art and craft items
  • Themed Sections: Christmas Greetings, Sports Booth, and Letters and Postcards
  • Pets: Small toys, treats, and tennis balls or frisbees 

Appealing displays for gifts

All school Christmas shops have one thing in common – their displays are attractive and made especially for the eyes of children. Using L-shape and U-shape tables can leave enough room for kids to navigate their way around. For decoration, consider using confetti, balloons, Christmas posters, and stickers to grab the kids’ attention. 

To get the most out of your school holiday shop, have the kids help with set-up, decoration, and more so they see the value of what goes into setting up a shop each season. You can make this grade specific so every year the kids get involved in a new part of the marketplace. 

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Don't forget gift wrapping service

Wrapping holiday shop gifts is as much of a tradition as the gifting itself. Working with a volunteer, have the kids assist with wrapping paper, taping, and placing into bags. They will better learn how to protect their new gifts by being a part of the wrapping process, allowing them to feel pride at their contributions. 

Volunteers help make the experience Christmasy

As they say, the more, the merrier. Having volunteers handy is always a good idea for organizing a successful in-school holiday gift fair. You’ll need volunteers who can:

  • Attend to each table of gifts.
  • Help the children with budgeting from their lists.
  • Manage and monitor the room in general.
  • Help at the cash desk with transactions and queries.
  • Wrap up the gifts at the wrapping station. 
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Organizing An In-School Holiday Gift Fair?

With our expertise in school Santa shop gifts, we are the right fit for all your school holiday fair needs. We bring a diverse range of gifts to pick from for the students that help everyone feel included. Consult with our team on the best school holiday fair package for your school and let us help you outline planning, promoting, and executing your fair. 

Contact us for more school Christmas shop ideas today. 

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