White Elephant and Secret Santa Ideas—From Creative Gifts to Easy Hosting Tips

Delicious treats, jolly music, lots of merriment with loved ones, and thoughtful gifts are all hallmarks of the holiday season; the latter two of which are often combined into the festive traditions of white Elephant and secret Santa exchanges. Both have their own set of rules, so if you’re planning an event with either, follow this advice from party planners on how to make sure all goes well—plus, learn how to choose a gift that'll be the "most-wanted" of the night.

How to Host a White Elephant Exchange 

A white elephant exchange is a group-gifting game in which each person brings a wrapped gift and places it in the center of the room. After the gifts are placed in the middle of the room, everyone draws a number from a jar to determine the game's order. “The first person picks a gift from the pile and opens it for everyone to see,” explains Irene Katzias, event planner and founder of Irene + Co.

“The person with number two then steps into the spotlight and decides whether to pick a new wrapped mystery or create some drama by stealing the just-opened gift,” Katzias says. “From there, it’s a fun mess of strategy, shameless steals, and everyone pretending they didn’t make secret eye contact deals across the room.” The exchange continues until every player has a gift in hand, with the final participant typically having the advantage of choosing any unclaimed present or executing one last bold steal.

It is important to establish ground rules before playing. For instance, consider a limit on how many times a gift can be stolen to keep things fair, as well as minimum and maximum budgetary limits. (Katzias recommends $5 to $25 per person).

How to Host a Secret Santa Exchange 

Secret Santa is the quieter cousin of the white elephant, and a true holiday classic. It involves each participant being secretly assigned one person to anonymously shop for and surprise with a thoughtful gift. (Hence the term “secret” Santa.) 

First, set a budget based on your group’s comfort level. A less intimate crowd (say, work colleagues) may have a lower threshold than a close group of friends or family. Next, you can focus the exchange around a certain theme (like ornaments, treats, or games) or make it completely open-ended.

After you determine all the participants, place all the names into a jar and draw names. "With the help of technology, there are many websites that will randomly assign names to each guest and notify them directly," explains Rachel Patterson, lead planner at Roberts & Co. Events. "Some even allow you to set certain rules." For example, ensuring couples can’t choose each other or making sure people get a different name from the year before."

Consider having those involved share wishlists, hobbies, or interests to help inform a good gift. And when shopping for your own secret Santa, utilize your resources and pay attention. “I love to check what companies they follow on social media, have they mentioned any hobbies that they love doing or want to start, and I may reach out to their close friends or partner to see if they have any ideas,” Patterson says.

The Best Gifts for Any Holiday Gift Exchange

While you should, of course, adhere to budgetary limits and given themes, the best gift-exchange presents follow one golden rule: pick something people genuinely want. Follow these tips to bring something actually worth stealing or a secret Santa present that’ll definitely delight.

Choose Something Universally Appealing

If you don't know exactly who you're shopping for (such as in a white elephant exchange), choose a gift with broad appeal: think cozy textiles, a gourmet edible gift, or a beautifully packaged candle. When in doubt, select something that feels both practical and a little luxurious.

Honor the Price Limit—But Enhance the Experience

Even simple gifts can shine when presented thoughtfully. Upgrade the presentation with a silky ribbon, a reusable tote-gift-bag hybrid, a sprig of fresh greenery tucked beneath the bow, or even a home-baked treat as an add-on.

Lean Into the Season

You can't go wrong by going festive. Consider artisanal cocoa sets, winter-scented soaps, or a cute mug paired with a handwritten recipe and the ingredients for spiced cider.

Think in Themes

A clever theme makes even a smaller gift feel intentional. For example, assemble a "cozy night-in" bundle with tea, slipper socks, and a mini puzzle; or a "morning reset" kit with a selection of coffee blends and a chic day planner.

Avoid Anything Too Personal

Skip sized clothing items, fragrance-heavy beauty products, or niche décor unless you know your recipient well (like in a Secret Santa with a clear wishlist). When the game includes acquaintances or coworkers, stay on neutral ground.

Bring a "Two-Part" Gift

Pair a playful item with something useful—like a novelty mug with a gourmet hot cocoa tin or a mini waffle maker with a breakfast mix. It'll increase the steal-worthiness.