Best Local Raffles in Saint Paul, MN: 2026 Local Guide
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Compare three documented Saint Paul raffles by prizes, timing, purchase rules, and available event details.
No single Saint Paul raffle can be objectively named "best" for 2026 because the three documented organizers do not publish odds or comparative rankings. The strongest choice depends on whether you value large cash prizes, multiple chances per ticket, or a mission-focused fundraiser. The currently documented opportunities come from Nativity of Our Lord School, West Fest on 7th, and Nine Lives Thrift.
All involve a chance to win—not a guaranteed benefit—and require in-person ticket purchases under Minnesota law.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on August 29, 2026.
Largest published prizes: Nativity's school raffle
Nativity of Our Lord School lists the largest disclosed prizes among these raffles. Its grand prize is $10,000 cash, followed by $5,000 cash or one year of tuition, plus a $1,000 third prize. Tickets cost $20 each or $150 for 10.
Buyers can purchase them at specified school and parish events through September 19, with the drawing held after the September 20 Mass in Saint Paul. The Nativity raffle page states that buyers and winners must be at least 18 and identifies Minnesota permit X-62025-26-052. Published prize values make comparison easier, but the organizer does not provide odds.
Festival option: West Fest on 7th
West Fest on 7th runs September 12–13, 2026, at 398 West Superior Street in Saint Paul. Raffle tickets will be sold during the festival before the closing drawing. Each ticket offers eight chances to win, according to the West Fest event page.
That feature may appeal to readers who want several drawing opportunities from one ticket, but it does not reveal the probability of winning. The organizer has not supplied enough information for a prize-value comparison with Nativity. Check the ticket itself for the drawing time, location, prizes, and permit details before paying.
Mission-focused option: Nine Lives Thrift
Nine Lives Thrift will hold its Friends & Fundraiser on September 26, 2026, from 4–7 p.m. in Saint Paul. The event will include raffle baskets, and entries support the organizer's clothing-reuse mission.
Prize contents and ticket details remain forthcoming on the Nine Lives Thrift events page. This makes the event worth monitoring, but it cannot yet be compared fairly on price or prize value. Wait for the organizer to publish the basket contents, ticket cost, purchase location, and drawing details.
Those facts will determine whether the raffle fits your budget and interests.
Minnesota raffle rules to check before buying
Minnesota permits organizers to advertise raffles online but bars online raffle-ticket sales. The state Gambling Control Board says buyers may use cash, check, or debit card—not a credit card—and no one under 18 may buy a ticket or win. The Board's raffle guidance also requires every entry to have an equal chance.
Winners must be selected at the time, date, and location printed on the ticket. Before purchasing:
- Use the organizer's stated in-person sales route.
- Confirm that you are at least 18.
- Bring an accepted payment method.
- Read the printed drawing date, time, and location.
- Check the organizer's permit information.