Tickets are now on sale for the Cumberland Community Schools Society’s annual Thunderballs fundraiser.

The event is a long-running Cumberland tradition featuring a token lottery, where 4,000 golf balls roll down the village’s main street in a race to win one of 20 prize packages.

This year’s top prizes include a round-trip flight for two to any regularly scheduled WestJet destination, a Mount Washington Gold Season Pass, and $1,000 cash.

Other prizes include mini-vacations, festival tickets, and gift cards from local businesses.

Proceeds from Thunderballs support the Cumberland Community Schools Society, a registered charity that provides nutritious meals, food hampers for residents experiencing food insecurity, and barrier-free recreational programs.

Organizers say the fundraiser plays a vital role in funding operations.

Executive Director, Sue Loveless, says demand for services has increased over the past year as residents continue to face the high cost of living.

The society’s goal is to raise $60,000 through sponsorships and ticket sales to help maintain programs and meet growing community needs.

More than 80 local businesses have contributed through financial support and prize donations.

Thunderballs tickets are available for $10 each, or five for $40.

A limited number of five-pack tickets are available online, with additional tickets sold in person at Moon’s Records, Seeds Food Market, and through society staff and board members.

Pop-up ticket tables will also appear around the Village of Cumberland, including during Market Day on May 16, while supplies last.

The Thunderballs race is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 18, in downtown Cumberland, ahead of the Victoria Day parade.

More information can be found at Cumberland Community Schools Society.