Now that you have decided what you are going to do to raise money, you should draw up a checklist of everything that needs to be done in the lead up to your date. Don't rush out and book venues, print posters, etc., before you have actually sat down and thought the event through.
The following tips should help make your planning process easier and lead to a good event with all participants and volunteers/ helpers enjoying themselves (hopefully they will come back next year or help again in the future).