Best Local Raffles in Indianapolis, IN: 2026 Local Guide
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Enter Indianapolis raffles supporting nonprofits and charities—here are specific events, ticket prices, entry methods, and licensing verification.
Indianapolis has several established raffles running in 2026, from the Murat Shrine's annual Sportsman's Raffle to minor league baseball fundraisers. These events are organized by nonprofits and civic groups; all collect ticket money for their causes, and winners receive prizes. Before you buy, Indiana law requires any raffle organized by a nonprofit to have a state license—a protection for buyers that's worth checking.
This guide lists current raffle opportunities, explains how entry works, and covers what state law allows.
Major Raffles to Enter in 2026
The Murat Shrine Sportsman's Raffle is the region's marquee annual event, held at 510 N. New Jersey St with prizes featuring sports equipment and gift cards. Tickets run $20–$25 depending on whether you buy in advance; the price includes venue entry, 75 prize chances, and dinner.
Nativity's Reverse Raffle kicks off in January 2026 with ticket sales after weekend Masses starting January 11–12. Unlike a standard raffle where you hope your number is drawn, this reverse raffle rewards ticket holders who *aren't* drawn—a different experience if you want to try that format. Two more options: The Indianapolis Indians Charities 50/50 Raffle splits winnings evenly between the ticket holder and a nonprofit partner, with tickets available at Victory Field or online for Indiana residents.
The Indianapolis Professional Firefighters Union Local 416 runs raffle fundraisers including an August 20, 2026 event; contact them for details on tickets and prizes.
Indiana's Licensing Requirement and Prize Limits
All nonprofits conducting raffles in Indiana must obtain a state license from the Secretary of State before tickets can be sold, with fines up to $10,000 for violators. This isn't bureaucracy—it's a buyer protection that ensures the organizer is legitimate and that proceeds go where promised. When entering any raffle, a quick question to the organizer ("Can you share your license number?") is fair and reveals whether they're operating legally.
Prize amounts are capped at $10,000 for most nonprofits, though certain licensed charities can run pools up to $50,000. Raffle tickets typically cost $1–$25. If an organizer advertises a prize that seems outsized for the ticket price, it's worth asking how they're structured under Indiana law.
How to Enter—In-Person and Online Options
Most Indianapolis raffles require in-person ticket purchase at a specific venue and date—this is typical for the Murat Shrine event and Nativity's Reverse Raffle. You'll receive your ticket at the event, and drawings happen on the same day or a published date afterward. The Indianapolis Indians 50/50 is different: because it's run by a Minor League Baseball organization, online ticket sales are available for Indiana residents between home games.
Check the organization's website for current dates and whether you need to be present at Victory Field for the drawing, or if draws happen remotely. For recurring annual events, mark your calendar by the published dates and confirm ticket-sale windows on the organizer's official site. Some organizations open advance sales weeks ahead; others sell only at the event.
Calling the nonprofit directly—rather than searching for raffle aggregator sites—ensures you get accurate, current information.
Red Flags and Verification
If a raffle isn't clearly tied to a nonprofit, civic organization, or established business, proceed cautiously. Indiana's licensing system exists because raffle scams do happen—unlicensed operators collect money and disappear, or promise prizes they never deliver. Before buying, visit the organizer's official website and look for their nonprofit status, mission statement, and contact information.
A legitimate organization will post raffle terms openly and respond to questions about licensing. If details are vague, incomplete, or only found on social media, that's a reason to wait for clearer information.