If you’re planning to make a political donation for the first time, consider attending a fundraising event. Rather than simply donating online, attending an event allows you to see firsthand what your donation supports.
Who Can Attend
Fundraising events are open to anyone who purchases a ticket. However, under Canadian federal law, only Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada are allowed to make federal political donations1. If you do not have this status, you cannot attend a federal political fundraising event.
To attend, you must buy a ticket, which counts as a donation. Ticket prices vary depending on the event. Some offer discounted rates based on age or regular donor status.
How to Find Fundraising Events
If you subscribe to a party’s newsletter or a local riding association newsletter, you may receive information about upcoming fundraising events. Otherwise, you can check the political party’s official website for event listings.
Event details usually include the city, date, time, and the names of any special guests. Registration and payment are typically handled through the website.
Action
Find a Fundraising Event
Below is a list of fundraising event pages for each party. Some parties use a separate page for fundraising events, while others include both regular and fundraising events on the same page. Not all fundraising events are listed online. Some are shared only through targeted newsletters or other forms of communication.
What Happens at Fundraising Events
When you arrive, check in at the reception desk. Staff will ask for your name and usually request photo ID to confirm your ticket, as tickets are non-transferable.
Light snacks and drinks are typically available. The formal program often begins 20–30 minutes after the listed start time. Sometimes the host or special guests arrive early. This is a good opportunity to greet them or take a photo before the speeches begin.
When the program starts, the host will welcome everyone and give a brief speech, followed by an introduction of the special guest, who will also speak. Some events include a brief Q&A session afterward.
After the speeches, you can stay to socialize or enjoy more refreshments. You may also have a chance to speak with the host or special guest. Keep in mind that special guests often have busy schedules and may leave early, so it’s best to approach them early if you’d like to speak with them or take a photo.
What to Wear
Dress in a way that fits your community’s expectations. However, people generally dress more formally at fundraising events compared to regular political gatherings such as volunteer appreciation events.
If you plan to take a photo with a special guest, consider wearing an outfit you’d feel comfortable being photographed in.
What to Bring
You don’t need to bring anything specific, but valid photo ID is required. Because tickets are non-transferable, reception staff will check your name against the guest list and may ask to verify your identity.
Some events provide a coat check or a designated area to leave personal items, but it’s best to avoid bringing bulky belongings, as space may be limited.
Key Takeaways from This Topic
Who can attend a federal political fundraising event?
Only Canadian citizens and permanent residents can attend, as buying a ticket counts as a political donation. If you’re not eligible to donate, you cannot attend.
How do I find political fundraising events?
You can find them through party or riding association newsletters or by checking the party’s website. Some events are shared only with targeted audiences, so subscribing to updates helps.
What happens at a fundraising event?
You’ll check in at the reception desk with photo ID, enjoy refreshments, and hear speeches from the host and special guests. There may also be a Q&A and a chance to mingle afterward.
Are tickets for fundraising events transferable?
No. Tickets are non-transferable, and staff will check your name and ID at the door to confirm your identity before entry.
What should I wear to a political fundraising event?
Dress is typically more formal than regular political events. Choose an outfit that fits your community’s norms and that you’d be comfortable wearing in a photo.
What should I bring to a fundraising event?
Bring valid photo ID to check in. While some venues offer coat checks, avoid bulky items, as space may be limited.
References
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Understanding contributions, Elections Canada ↩