Ways2Raise

What is it?

A Hot Chocolate Station is a simple and delightful way to raise funds by selling delicious hot chocolate to friends, family, and the local community. Perfect for chilly days or school events, it’s a beginner-friendly fundraising idea that brings people together and warms them up while supporting your adventure trip.

Why does it work?

People love a comforting drink, especially when it’s homemade and served with a smile. Hot chocolate appeals to all ages and encourages impulse purchases, especially when paired with toppings or extras. Hosting it at a busy location ensures good footfall, and the low cost of ingredients means high profit margins.

What you'll need

Large kettle or hot water urn
Thermos flasks or insulated cups to keep drinks warm
Hot chocolate mix (powdered or ready-made)
Milk or water (depending on preference)
Disposable cups and lids
Stirrers or spoons
Napkins
Optional toppings: marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate sprinkles, cinnamon
Table and tablecloth
Cash box or mobile payment setup
Permission from venue (school, community centre, local event)
Volunteers/helpers (recommended)

Step-by-step plan

Get permission to set up your Hot Chocolate Station at a busy location such as your school, a local market, or a community event.

Calculate how many cups you want to sell and buy the necessary supplies in advance, including hot chocolate mix, milk, cups, and toppings.

Prepare the hot chocolate by heating water or milk using a kettle or hot water urn, and keep it warm in thermoses or insulated flasks.

Set up a neat, inviting stall with clear pricing and an attractive display of toppings to encourage extras sales.

Serve customers promptly, offering to add toppings for a small extra donation to increase funds raised.

Manage money carefully by using a cash box or mobile payment app, and keep a tally of sales throughout the event.

Clean up your area after the event and thank everyone who supported you.

How to advertise it

Create colourful posters and display them around school, community centres, and local shops.
Use social media (Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat) to announce your Hot Chocolate Station with date, time, and location.
Ask teachers or community leaders to mention your stall during announcements or newsletters.
Invite friends and family and encourage them to spread the word.
Set up a sign at your stall with clear prices and a friendly message about your fundraising cause.

Realistic earnings

Most teenagers can expect to raise between £40 and £100 during a single day, depending on location, footfall, and pricing. Adding toppings or extras can boost your total take.

Top tips

✅ Choose a high-traffic spot to maximise sales, such as near school entrances or community events.

✅ Offer a variety of toppings to encourage customers to spend a little more.

✅ Keep drinks warm and fresh by using thermoses or insulated containers.

✅ Work with friends or family to keep the stall running smoothly and attract more customers.

Common mistakes to avoid

⚠️ Not checking or securing permission to sell at your chosen location.

⚠️ Underpricing your hot chocolate and missing out on potential profit.

⚠️ Running out of supplies mid-event due to poor planning.

💡 TOP TIP — easyfundraising

Buy your hot chocolate mix, disposable cups, and toppings through easyfundraising partner stores like Tesco or Amazon to earn cashback towards your fundraising total.

Set up your easyfundraising cause free →