Best Local Raffles in Memphis, TN: 2026 Local Guide
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Memphis raffles are run by local charitable nonprofits throughout the year—from the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway to smaller community fundraisers—and legally operated ones are registered with Tennessee.
Memphis doesn't have a centralized annual guide ranking the "best" local raffles. Instead, charitable organizations throughout the city and Tennessee conduct individual raffles to fund their programs, and each is promoted separately by its sponsoring group. If you're looking to enter raffles in the Memphis area, you'll find a mix of major fundraisers like the St.
Jude Dream Home Giveaway and smaller community events run by local nonprofits throughout the year. All raffles in Tennessee must be conducted by 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(19) charitable organizations approved by the Tennessee General Assembly, according to the Tennessee Secretary of State. This legal framework means every raffle you encounter locally has already passed a compliance check—unauthorized raffles carry criminal penalties for organizers.
What Makes a Legal Memphis Raffle
Tennessee's raffle rules are straightforward: only registered charitable nonprofits can run them. This protection means you can trust that raffles promoted by established local organizations meet state requirements. Before entering, confirm the organization is listed on the Tennessee Secretary of State's charitable registry; the sponsoring group's website or ticket page should mention its 501(c) status.
Most raffles require no purchase to enter, though nearly all Memphis raffles charge per ticket—typically $10 to $100. Ticket prices vary based on the prize and the organization's fundraising goal. Entry deadlines matter: some raffles accept tickets until drawing day, while others close well before the winner is announced.
Major Established Raffles
The St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway is Memphis's highest-profile annual raffle. The 2026 event featured $100 raffle tickets that sold out by June 28, raising $2.15 million for childhood cancer research.
The winner, Judy Akin of Germantown, received a $675,000 home in Arlington, Tennessee. This raffle typically launches in spring and runs until tickets sell out, making it one of Memphis's most competitive raffles. Fall Fest Memphis holds a $10,000 Cash Raffle on October 16–17, 2026, at Catholic Church of the Incarnation in Collierville.
Tickets go on sale online beginning June 20 and support Catholic Church community programs. The lower ticket price and direct cash prize make this a more accessible option for those watching their budget.
Community Organization Raffles
Smaller nonprofits throughout Memphis run raffles tied to fundraising galas and events. The Memphis Child Advocacy Center's 37th Annual Gala on September 24, 2026 includes Teddy Bear Surprise gift packages that function as raffle-style fundraisers, with proceeds supporting child abuse victims. Rise Memphis Inc's Together We RISE Gala features a MyCityRides Jet 14 Scooter Raffle offering a package valued over $10,000 including three years maintenance, liability insurance, and safety gear.
The Global Friends Brunch on May 16, 2026 features a raffle with $20 tickets, paired with silent auction, brunch, and Latin dancing benefiting immigrant support services. These raffles bundle the ticket purchase with event entry, so you're supporting a cause while experiencing a community gathering.
Statewide Wildlife Raffle
If you're willing to enter a raffle beyond Memphis proper, the 2026 Tennessee Wildlife Conservation Raffle offers premium outdoor prizes with $20 tickets (or 3 for $50, 10 for $100), with the drawing on November 10, 2026, and a ticket sales deadline of November 8. Proceeds fund the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency's conservation programs. This option appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and runs annually.
Finding Raffles Throughout the Year
Since Memphis raffles are not compiled in a single directory, you'll need to check individual organizations' websites and social media pages for announcements. Nonprofit websites typically list upcoming fundraising events and raffles at least two to three months in advance. Church websites, local nonprofits focused on health or social services, and community centers are common raffle sponsors.
Timing your entry strategically can help: major raffles like St. Jude's sell out quickly, so buying early increases your odds; smaller community raffles often have tickets available closer to the drawing date. Always confirm the organization's nonprofit status and read ticket terms before purchasing to understand prize claim procedures and any eligibility restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to run or enter raffles in Memphis?
Yes, if the organization is a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(19) charitable organization approved by the Tennessee General Assembly. Unauthorized raffles carry criminal penalties.
What's the cheapest raffle to enter in Memphis?
Fall Fest Memphis's $10,000 Cash Raffle has $10 tickets, and the Global Friends Brunch raffle uses $20 tickets. Most other raffles range from $20 to $100 per ticket.
When do major Memphis raffles typically occur?
The St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway runs in spring (typically sold out by late June); Fall Fest raffles occur in October. Community raffles are scattered throughout the year, often tied to nonprofit galas and events.