What is a Tombola Raffle?

August 4, 2026

Tombola! It’s just fun to say, isn’t it? Tombola! It’s one of those words begging to be yelled; you can’t say “tombola” quietly. It just wouldn’t be right. But what the heck is a Tombola raffle? Or a Tombola, for that matter?

Let’s delve into the world of Tombola. Here, you will find yourself learning the following:

• What is a Tombola
• About Tombola raffles
• How Tombola fundraisers work
• How a Tombola compares to a 50/50 raffle
• What raffle tickets are best for a Tombola

What is a Tombola? 

The term “tombola” refers to the basket or drum utilized in a lottery or raffle, called a tombola drum. It can also describe a lottery where the winning ticket is drawn from a rotating drum. Interestingly, it also serves as an Italian expression for a stumble or trip, like saying “oops.” The connection between tripping and picking a raffle ticket is anyone’s guess, although it may be hinting at a touch of luck.

About Tombola Raffles

The simplest way to coordinate a successful Tombola raffle is to incorporate it into an existing event. Tombola raffles share similarities with Tricky Tray fundraisers, often serving as an additional fundraising component within a larger fundraising event, and the tickets themselves are set at a lower price. However, unlike Tricky Trays, participants in Tombola raffles cannot choose the specific raffle prize they enter to win. All of the winners in a Tombola raffle are drawn from the same container. For instance, a basket of Japanese candy may be what compelled a person to enter, but they might end up being the winner of the grab bag of artisan BBQ sauces instead. Which adds an element of surprise and creates a more enjoyable experience. 

How Tombola Raffles Work

During a Tombola fundraiser, fun prizes are displayed, and people can purchase as many tickets as they want. In terms of deciding on the ideal tombola prizes, these are generally items that most anyone would be happy to win, though not as flashy as those in regular raffles. Gourmet items and themed baskets are popular choices in a Tombola raffle. The fun lies in taking a chance on a modestly priced ticket (usually $2-$4) for a shot at winning treats like Belgian chocolates or a fine bottle of wine. Winners are drawn from the revolving Tombola or ticket bucket, and organizers have flexibility in arranging the distribution of prizes.

How Does a Tombola Compare to a 50/50 Raffle?

A Tombola and a 50/50 raffle both raise money through ticket sales, but they pay out very differently.

What is a 50/50 raffle: This drawing has one prize — cash, split down the middle between a single winner and your cause. A Tombola, on the other hand, spreads the excitement across several smaller prizes pulled from the drum throughout your event, giving more guests a chance to win along the way.

If you want to skip sourcing exciting raffle prizes and launch your fundraiser fast, a 50/50 raffle is the better fit. If you want a steady stream of winners to keep guests engaged all night, a Tombola works well as an add-on to your fundraising event. But really, you don’t have to choose. Plenty of organizations sell 50/50 raffle tickets and also set up a Tombola table to keep attendees engaged and having fun while also raising money for their cause.

Best Raffle Tickets for Tombola

Double roll tickets prove ideal for a Tombola raffle prize draw. Each ticket is consecutively numbered, and the ticket number is printed on both ticket halves. When a Tombola ticket is purchased, one side is torn off to be added to the revolving drum, while the other goes to the ticket buyer.

Tombola Pro Tip: To boost funds, consider offering discounted ticket bundles — for example, letting someone buy 5 tickets and get one free. This encourages increased participation and ticket sales.

Ready to bring the excitement of a Tombola raffle to your next event or fundraiser? It all begins with the perfect ticket. Shop our raffle ticket templates and lay the groundwork for unforgettable moments and thrilling surprises. With each ticket, you’re not just providing a chance to win; you’re creating memories and making a difference.