The Basics

If you aren’t familiar with cow patty bingo, here’s how the game works:

1. You divide a large field into squares that measure at least 3 feet by 3 feet.
2. Each of your supporters chooses one of those squares and pays a set price for it.
3. At the appointed time, a cow is released into the field.
4. Everyone watches and waits until the cow does its business in one of the squares.
5. The supporter who has paid for the square where the cow patty landed wins!

The winner’s reward could be a cash prize, a physical item like a gift basket or baked good, or simply a “Cow Patty Bingo Champion” trophy. At the end of the event, all of your supporters’ contributions go toward your organization’s cause!

What You’ll Need

Although cow patty bingo requires few supplies to pull off, you need to be careful when gathering those supplies to ensure everything goes smoothly during the event. Make sure you have:

• A cow, of course! If your organization doesn’t have easy access to a cow, contact nearby farms to ask if you can borrow a cow for the event, and make sure to thank them for their support during the event.
• A large field with a secure fence or enclosure so the cow doesn’t escape during the game, plus tools to mark off the field into squares and clean it up afterward.
• A printed map of that field so each supporter can write their name and contact information in their chosen square.
• A seating area for spectators during the event.

In terms of event personnel, you’ll need several staff members or volunteers to divide up the field, sell squares, and help with cleanup. Ask someone who is experienced in handling livestock to release the cow and lead it off the field once it has done its business to ensure safety.

What to Do If You Don’t Have a Cow

If your organization can’t find a cow to use for your cow patty bingo event, all hope is not lost! Chickens are often easier to borrow–chances are someone in your community has a backyard chicken coop–so you could play a version of the game known as “Cock-a-Doodle-Poo” instead. The basic process is the same, except you’ll release a rooster into the field instead of a cow. This alternative is also helpful if space is a concern.