How to Play Secret Santa

Everything you need to know to organize a fun and successful Secret Santa gift exchange.

What is Secret Santa?

Secret Santa is a popular gift exchange tradition where each participant is randomly assigned another person to give a gift to. The identity of the gift giver remains secret until the gift is opened, adding an element of surprise and fun to the exchange.

It's perfect for office parties, family gatherings, friend groups, and online communities. The tradition helps keep gift-giving manageable - instead of buying gifts for everyone, each person only buys one gift.

Basic Rules

Minimum Participants

You need at least 3 people to play, but 5-20 participants is ideal.

Set a Budget

Agree on a spending limit (e.g., $20-30) so everyone spends roughly the same amount.

Keep It Secret

Don't reveal who you got! The surprise is half the fun. Only reveal yourself when giving the gift.

Be Thoughtful

Put effort into choosing a gift your recipient will enjoy. Check their wish list if available!

Step-by-Step Guide

Gather Your Group

Decide who will participate. This could be your office team, family members, friend group, or online community.

Set the Rules

Agree on:

Budget range (e.g., $20-30)
Gift exchange date
Any exclusion rules (couples, family members)
Gift type preferences (funny, practical, handmade, etc.)

Draw Names

Use SecretSantaGenerator to randomly assign matches. Each person will see who they got without anyone else knowing.

Share Wish Lists

Everyone adds their wish list with gift ideas. This helps Secret Santas choose something their recipient will love.

Shop for Your Gift

Buy or make a thoughtful gift for your assigned person. Stay within budget and keep it a secret!

Exchange Gifts

On the agreed date, gather together (in person or virtually) and exchange gifts. You can reveal who had whom as gifts are opened, or keep it secret until the end!

Tips for a Great Secret Santa

Start Early

Give participants at least 2-3 weeks to shop for gifts. This reduces stress and allows time for thoughtful choices.

Encourage Wish Lists

Wish lists make gift-giving easier and ensure everyone gets something they'll enjoy. Encourage specific items, not just general categories.

Set Clear Expectations

Be clear about whether gifts should be funny, practical, handmade, or a mix. This helps everyone choose appropriate gifts.

Plan the Reveal

Decide how you'll exchange gifts - all at once, one by one, or with a guessing game. Make it fun and festive!

Have a Backup Plan

If someone can't participate last minute, have a plan to reassign their match or have an extra gift ready.

Fun Variations

White Elephant

Participants can "steal" opened gifts from each other, adding a competitive twist.

Themed Gifts

Set a theme like "cozy winter," "office supplies," or "handmade only."

Secret Clues

Give hints about who you are throughout the weeks leading up to the exchange.

Virtual Secret Santa

Ship gifts or use gift cards for groups that can't meet in person.

Ready to Start Your Secret Santa?

Now that you know how to play, create your event and start the fun!

Create Your Secret Santa