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Quick Answer
A school taco sale fundraiser can earn 50-65% profit margins. Sell tacos for $4-5 each (cost $1.50-2.00 to make), plan for 2-3 tacos per attendee, and add drinks/desserts for extra revenue. A 300-taco sale nets $600-900 profit with volunteer labor.
Taco sales are one of the most profitable and popular school fundraisers. They bring families together, cost less than carnival-style events, and can be repeated successfully. Here's your complete guide to running a profitable taco night fundraiser.
Profit Potential
Sample 300-Taco Sale
Costs
- Tortillas (400): ~$40
- Proteins (20 lbs): ~$100
- Toppings/cheese: ~$60
- Supplies: ~$50
- Total Cost: ~$250
Revenue @ $4/taco
- 300 tacos @ $4: $1,200
- Drinks (100 @ $2): $200
- Desserts: $100
- Total Revenue: $1,500
- PROFIT: ~$1,250
Key to profit: Volunteer labor + donated toppings from families!
Planning Your Sale
Pricing Strategy
- • Single taco: $4-5
- • Taco plate (2 + rice/beans): $8-10
- • Family pack (8 tacos): $28-32
- • Drinks: $1-2
- • Dessert: $2-3
Volunteer Needs
- • Setup crew: 4-6 people
- • Cooking/assembly: 6-10 people
- • Serving/cashiers: 4-6 people
- • Cleanup: 4-6 people
Fundraiser Quantities
| Expected Attendance | Tacos to Prep | Tortillas | Protein | Potential Profit* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 people | 250-300 | 350-400 | 18-22 lbs | $700-1,000 |
| 200 people | 500-600 | 700-800 | 35-45 lbs | $1,500-2,100 |
| 300 people | 750-900 | 1000-1200 | 55-70 lbs | $2,200-3,200 |
*Profit assumes $4/taco sales price, volunteer labor, and some donated supplies. Add drinks/desserts for 20-30% more revenue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need permits for a school taco sale?
Usually not if held on school property as a fundraiser. Check with your school administration and local health department. Some areas require temporary food permits even for nonprofit events.
Should we pre-sell tickets or have walk-up sales?
Both! Pre-sales guarantee minimum revenue and help with planning. Walk-up sales capture impulse buyers. Consider a small discount for pre-sale tickets to encourage advance purchases.
Stock Up for Your Fundraiser
Bulk tortillas at prices that maximize your profit.