Since 2013, we’ve compiled a list of the most successful charity-owned mass participation events. Which charities have made this year’s Top 25? And what insights will help shape your event portfolio for 2024?
What 2023 Taught Us About Mass Participation Events
The UK’s top mass participation fundraising events saw a significant bounce back last year.
The report revealed that the largest 25 charity owned fundraising events collectively raised £132 million in 2023 – a 16% increase over the previous year.
This growth was fuelled by the return of many major in-person events like Race for Life, Macmillan Coffee Morning, Movember and The Mighty Hike Series exceeding pre-pandemic participation levels.
Accessible in-person events and social activities were among the fastest growing categories, with in person events growing 16% and social events growing 21% respectively.
With Race for life maintaining its spot at number 1 raising over £31.2M the fastest growing events this year were:
Breast Cancer Now’s Afternoon Tea – 66%
Sober October – 53%
Marsden March – 50%
With inflation easing and disposable incomes forecasted to rise, the future outlook is promising. Over 70% of charities behind this year’s Top 25 expect further participation growth in 2024, while 59% anticipate an increase in fundraising value.