White Elephant Gift Exchange – What is it? Is it the new Secret Santa?
‘Tis the season for festive fun, gifts, and some friendly competition (cause who doesn’t love a little holiday drama?). If you’re over the same old Secret Santa routine, it might be time to give the White Elephant Gift Exchange a whirl. This unconventional gift exchange delivers big laughs, unexpected twists, and just the right amount of scheming, perfect for office shenanigans, family get-togethers, or an end-of-year party with your crew.
So, what’s White Elephant Gift Exchange all about, and how does it stack up against Secret Santa? Let us break it down for you.
White Elephant vs. Secret Santa: The Showdown
Secret Santa: The OG of gift-giving games. Participants draw names, buy a thoughtful gift for their assigned person, and play it cool while waiting for the big reveal. The vibe is heartfelt, personal, and mysterious enough to keep things fun.
White Elephant (aka Yankee Swap or Dirty Santa): Here’s where things get spicy. Instead of buying a gift for someone specific, you bring a wrapped present to the party, usually aiming for something funny or impractical. The twist? Players can steal gifts from each other, turning the whole thing into a game of luck and good old-fashioned revenge.
How to Host a White Elephant Gift Exchange
Here’s how to make your White Elephant exchange the talk of the season.
1. Pick a Theme
Themes keep things fresh. Try useless gadgets (because who doesn’t need a self-stirring mug?), re-gifted gems (looking at you, singing fish plaque), or holiday classics like ugly sweaters and festive socks. Go for a retro 90s throwback (think Tamagotchis, mood rings, and fanny packs) or unleash your inner Picasso with a DIY masterpiece.
2. Nail the Budget and Gifts
Set a budget that’s fair and fun. Gifts should toe the line between amusing and ridiculous. Need inspiration? We’ve got a guide with Christmas Gifts for the Person Who Has Everything.
3. Set the Rules
To keep things running smoothly, here’s a quick rundown:
- Each person brings one wrapped gift within the agreed theme and budget.
- Draw numbers to determine the order.
- On your turn, pick a gift from the pile or steal someone else’s. (Unlike other games, it’s best to be last for this one as you get to see all the presents and steal the best one!)
- Limit how many times a gift can be stolen (because no one wants Christmas to turn into a showdown over a pineapple-shaped lamp).
Why Is It Called White Elephant?
Legend has it, the name ‘White Elephant’ comes from an old Siamese tale where elephants were seen as sacred, valuable, and a bit of a hassle. Sure, they were an honour to receive, but taking care of one? Expensive and impractical. Fast forward to today, and the term has evolved to describe fun but impractical gifts, a perfect fit for the White Elephant gift exchange.
Experience a World Full of Wonder This Holiday Season
Whether it’s a White Elephant gift exchange or a full-blown Christmas party, the holidays are all about fun, surprises, and bringing people together. So grab those quirky gifts, brush up on your stealing strategy, and let the good times roll.
Ready to plan the party of the season? Book with Ovolo today and make this year’s festivities one for the memory books.
Experience a World Full of Wonder This Holiday Season
Whether it’s a White Elephant Gift Exchange or a full-blown Christmas party, the holidays are all about fun, surprises, and bringing people together. So grab those quirky gifts, brush up on your stealing strategy, and let the good times roll.
Ready to plan the party of the season? Book with Ovolo today and make this year’s festivities one for the memory books.