What’s in the Bag? The 5 Must-Have Merchandise Pieces for 2025 Events



From camps and school fundraisers to local festivals and rallies, one thing remains true: the right merchandise can amplify your event. It extends your message, energizes your crowd, and, when done right, becomes part of your community’s culture. So, what are the standout items you should be planning for this year? We’re giving you a sneak peek from our newest eBook.



We won’t give away the full list (you’ll have to download it for that), but here are three teaser picks and why they’re more than just popular—they’re purposeful:

  • T-Shirts: Still the champion. Flexible, wearable, and a canvas for your mission. According to Custom Ink, t-shirts remain the #1 most ordered event item globally because they’re low-cost, high-impact, and universally loved. You can design one shirt for staff, another for attendees, and even sell limited edition versions to raise funds. When youth wear a shirt that represents their club, cause, or experience, they become walking testimonials.

  • Tote Bags: Practical and eco-conscious. Parents, volunteers, and staff will use them for years. With bans on plastic bags rising, totes have also become more common in everyday life—meaning your logo goes more places. More importantly, they’re versatile: use them as volunteer appreciation gifts, conference swag carriers, or donation thank-yous. Bonus: print your QR code or social handle right on the side for instant engagement.

  • Reusable Bottles: Double win: promoting hydration and your brand. A study by ASI Central showed that promotional drinkware generates over 1,400 impressions per item over its lifespan. That’s a serious return on visibility. Branded bottles are especially useful at outdoor events, summer camps, and school athletics. Want to build a stronger identity? Try pairing bottles with stickers or name tag decals that kids can personalize.

Other items to consider (and covered in the full eBook):

  • Vinyl Stickers: A low-cost, high-excitement item that youth love. Great for decorating laptops, water bottles, and notebooks.




  • Pop-Up Banners & Displays: Often overlooked but vital for events. They enhance visibility, give your program a professional look, and become photo ops for attendees.



The best merchandise isn’t just stylish—it’s strategic. Each item you choose should serve one or more of the following purposes:

  • Increase event visibility

  • Raise funds

  • Encourage brand interaction

  • Provide long-term use

  • Foster pride and identity

Every item in our Top 5 was chosen because it delivers on more than one of those goals. With the right print partner (hey, that’s us), your merch won’t just sit on a table—it’ll start conversations, generate revenue, and build a legacy.

Conclusion:
This isn’t just a list—it’s a proven blueprint for community event success. Whether you’re outfitting volunteers or running a merch booth, these top picks are the tools you need to stand out and sustain impact. Want the full list and bonus ideas for each? You know what to do.

Next up: We’re breaking down each item one by one, starting with the true MVP: custom t-shirts.

Grab your ebook: Top 5 Merchandise Ideas for Community Events in 2025 NOW! Or you can connect with us directly- Book an appointment!



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