100 Concession Stand Menu Ideas + Tips for Organizing
Posted by SignUpGenius Team
Quick Summary
Running a concession stand is a tried-and-true way to raise money for schools, sports teams, and community groups. The key is building a concession stand menu that appeals to everyone. Here’s how:
- Offer classic concession stand foods like hot dogs, popcorn, and pretzels
- Mix in sweet treats (cupcakes, brownies) and salty snacks (chips, nachos)
- Provide healthier concession stand foods such as fruit cups and yogurt parfaits
- Include allergen-friendly snacks so everyone can enjoy something
- Recruit reliable concession stand workers
- Maintain a volunteer schedule sign up to stay organized
🎉 Fun Fact: Nearly 4 out of 5 fans purchase food or drinks at games and concerts, spending about $32 each time¹.
Classic Concession Stand Foods
These timeless favorites belong on every concession stand menu:
- Hot dogs
- French fries
- Funnel cakes
- Honey roasted peanuts
- Corn dogs
- Popcorn
- Hamburgers
- Soft pretzels
- Chicken wings
- Snow cones
Sweet Treats That Sell Fast
Sugary snacks are guaranteed crowd-pleasers — and profitable sellers:
- Rice Krispie treats
- Cake pops
- Donuts
- Chocolate chip cookies
- Brownies
- Fried cookie dough
- Cupcakes
- Muffins
- Sugar cookies
Salty Snacks for Every Craving
Fans love pairing these with a drink from your concession stand:
- Mozzarella sticks
- Cheese quesadillas
- Potato chips
- Soft pretzel bites
- Tacos in a bag
- Dill pickles
- Hush puppies
- Chex mix
- Bagel bites
- Roasted almonds
Warm & Toasty Game Day Treats
Perfect for fall or winter sports events:
- Hot chocolate
- Pigs in a blanket
- Nachos
- Boiled peanuts
- Waffle fries
- Bacon-wrapped tater tots
- Hot apple cider
- Meatballs
Refreshing Drinks and Beverages
Keep your concession stand stocked with thirst-quenchers:
- Coffee
- Lemonade
- Sports drinks
- Soda
- Cold water
- Smoothies
- Juice boxes
- Slushies
Healthy Concession Stand Foods
Appeal to health-conscious fans with these better-for-you options:
- Veggie cups
- Yogurt parfaits
- Sweet potato chips
- Pistachios
- Sliced apples
- Frozen grapes
- Granola bars
- Edamame
- Fruit popsicles
Allergen-Friendly Concession Stand Snacks
- Inclusive options make your stand accessible to everyone:
- Hummus with corn chips
- Rice cakes
- Seaweed chips
- Zuchini fries
- Fresh fruit
- Popcorn (no butter)
- Applesauce Cups
- Allergen-free cookies
- Grilled chicken nuggets
- Baked potato
Creative Concession Stand Ideas
Unique combos help your stand stand out:
- Chocolate covered potato chips
- Pickles wrapped in ham and cream cheese
- Fries with nacho cheese dip
- Fried bananas with cinnamon
- Caramel-filled apples
- Frozen yogurt berries
- Corn muffin hot dogs
- Popcorn and candy mix
- Croissant mac & cheese pockets
No-Prep Concession Stand Foods
When you don’t have cooking facilities, try these simple sellers:
- Dried fruit
- Fruit roll-ups
- Individual cereal boxes
- Packaged chips
- Cheese sticks
- Trail mix
Candy & Confections for the Win
Sweet sellers that always boost profits:
- Caramel apples
- Cotton candy
- Root beer floats
- Churros
- S’mores
- Ice cream cones
- Lollipops
- Gummies
- Chocolate covered pretzels
Don’t Forget the Equipment & Workers
Running a concession stand isn’t just about food — you’ll also need concession stand equipment (popcorn machines, warming trays, drink dispensers) and reliable concession stand workers.
🧠 Genius Tip: Use SignUpGenius to recruit and schedule volunteers, assign shifts, and keep your concession stand running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions: Concession Stand Food Ideas
Q: What concession stand foods make the most profit?
A: Popcorn, nachos, cotton candy, and soda are inexpensive to prepare but sell at high margins.
Q: How do I set up a portable concession stand?
A: Portable concession stands are great for community events. Focus on no-prep foods, packaged drinks, and simple snacks that travel well.
Q: How do I build a successful concession stand menu?
A: Mix classic staples (like hot dogs and fries) with healthier and allergen-free options so every fan has something to enjoy.
Q: How can I recruit concession stand workers?
A: Use a volunteer scheduling tool like SignUpGenius to fill shifts quickly and keep track of who’s covering each game or event.
Conclusion
With the right concession stand menu and an organized crew, you can turn game days into successful fundraisers. Create a free SignUpGenius sign up today to schedule shifts, collect donations, and keep your stand running smoothly.
¹DTG Power. “Stadium Concessions 2023: Trends and Insights.”
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