Running a fair and lively prize draw

For many guests, the prize draw is the most anticipated part of the night. It is also the segment most likely to stall if the list is wrong or the method fails. A little preparation keeps it fair and fun.

Set clear rules

Decide who is eligible before the event and write it down. Are contractors included? Must winners be present? Can one person win twice? Share the rules with the emcee so questions are answered consistently.

Prepare a clean entry list

Use your attendance record as the starting point and remove duplicates. If the draw happens on screen, check that names display correctly, including longer names and special characters.

Split the draw into rounds

Several short rounds across the evening keep energy up and give late arrivals a chance. Keep the top prizes for the final round so guests stay until the end.

Plan for redraws

Agree in advance what happens if a winner is absent or ineligible, and how quickly a redraw happens. A calm, rehearsed redraw protects the credibility of the whole draw.

For a closer look at on-screen draws and live operation, this lucky draw guide explains rehearsal, winner checks and redraws.

If your draw is run for the public rather than staff, read the guidance on the Singapore Police Force website about permits for promotional draws before you start.