Shhh! Don’t say anything just quite yet. It’s time for your annual Secret Santa gift exchange! Here are some really fun ideas anyone will be happy to get.
JUMP TO: THE TOP 6 SECRET SANTA GIFT IDEAS
HOW TO PLAY SECRET SANTA (AKA "THE RULES"
The Christmas season is upon us, and you know what that means: it’s time to channel your inner elf and dive into the jolly whirlpool of Secret Santa! For those who don’t know or may need a little bit of a refresher on what it’s all about, Secret Santa is a holiday tradition where people exchange gifts anonymously. It can be with family members, your friend group, your office co-workers – or any group of important people in your life.
Whether you’re navigating the frosty waters of office camaraderie or embarking on a family fun-fest, a Secret Santa gift swap guarantees giggles, surprises, and moments that’ll make you wonder if these people really know you at all.
If you’re not sure how to “play” Secret Santa, here are 6 quick and easy steps we’ve come up with so you can set up this holiday gift swap with ease. Feel free to go off course a bit to tailor this to what works best for you and your crew.
Step 1: Gather the Elves
- Rally your fellow merry-makers! Round up your colleagues, friends, or family members who are ready to embrace the spirit of giving in a slightly sneaky way.
Step 2: Hat of Destiny
- Write down each participant’s name on a piece of paper and toss it into Santa’s Hat (or bowl – no need to raid the costume store… unless you really want to).
Step 3: Santa’s Random Draw
- In a suspenseful ceremony (or a Zoom call, if you’re playing virtually), each person takes a turn drawing a name from the Hat of Destiny. That’s the person they’ll be secretly Santa-ing!
Step 4: Detective Mode
- Get your sleuth on! Discreetly gather intel about your chosen giftee’s likes, dislikes, hobbies, and secret dreams. It’s like preparing for a top-secret mission – but with more glitter.
Step 5: Wish List Wonders
- Create a wish list with potential gift ideas, like a sly Santa shopping list. Sneakily share this list with your Secret Santa kin to ensure everyone’s hard work results in gleeful grins.
Step 6: The Grand Gift Reveal
- It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Gather around (virtually or IRL) and reveal your thoughtfully chosen gifts. The looks of surprise, joy, and utter confusion are pure holiday magic.
SOME FUN "INTRO" SECRET SANTA QUESTIONS
Part of the fun of taking part in Secret Santa is asking some questions that’ll help everyone understand what you (or they) are all about. Here are some good starter questions everyone can fill out – if they choose – to make everyone’s life easier.
- If you could be a holiday dessert, what delicious treat would you choose?
- What’s your go-to dance move when nobody’s watching?
- If you were a character in a holiday movie, who would you be and why?
- What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever done during a snowstorm?
- If you could magically swap places with any historical figure for a day, who would it be?
- What’s your ultimate karaoke jam that you secretly (or not-so-secretly) rock out to?
- If you were in charge of creating a new holiday, what would it celebrate?
- What’s the most hilarious gift you’ve ever received that actually turned out to be awesome?
- What’s your signature winter fashion accessory that you can’t live without?
- If you could have any superpower just for the holiday season, what would it be?
- What’s your favorite quirky holiday tradition that you cherish each year?
- If you could time travel to any era’s holiday celebration, which one would you crash?
- What’s the most unusual place you’ve ever found a lost holiday decoration?
- If you were to design a snow globe, what scene would it capture?
- What’s your guilty pleasure holiday movie that you watch every year without fail?
- What’s the wackiest gift you’ve ever given or received during a Secret Santa exchange?
- If you had to choose between being Santa’s reindeer or his trusty elf, which role would you prefer?
- What’s your favorite winter activity that gives you a thrill of childlike glee?
- If you could teleport anywhere in the world for a magical holiday evening, where would you go?
- What’s the most hilarious holiday-themed joke you know that never fails to make you chuckle?
FUN TIPS & IDEAS FOR SECRET SANTA GIFTS
Here are some tips for making your Secret Santa experience the best it can be:
- THINK BUDGET: Set a budget! This will help you avoid overspending on your gift and keep everyone on the same page. Whether if you go with the standard $25 – $50 spend on go on the more budget-friendly or splurge-worth budget at least everyone will know exactly what to expect.
- THINK INTERESTS: Think about the interests of the person you’re buying for. What do they like? What would they use? Try to steer clear of just gifts “you” would want.
- THINK CREATIVELY: Get creative! A unique and thoughtful gift is always appreciated.
- THINK PACKAGING: Wrap your gift nicely…or totally odd and strange. This is part of the fun!
- THINK THE REVEAL: Include a card with your name and a holiday message if you want to give away your identity!
And then, of course, there are the gifts themselves. Now that you know what it’s all about, how “to play” and what to keep in mind, check out the Secret Santa-approved gifts we’ve hand-selected that should make any of the gift receivers happy that they got you!
1.
The Hydroflask Widemouth Bottle
One of the top-sellers of the year, this Hydro Flask will keep your hot beverages nice and hot for up to 12 hours and your cold beverages cold for up to 24 hours. It’s like a miracle. This one comes in a variety of cool colors too like pacific blue, pink, lilac, stainless steel, grey, black, and more. So it doesn’t matter if your Secret Santa giftee is a kid, tween, teen, or adult. Everyone could use a new incentive to increase their water intake!
WHAT TO LOVE:
Magical Insulation Powers: Whether you’re sipping a chilly drink under the blazing sun, or cozying up with a warm beverage in the midst of winter frost. This bottle’s like a wizard that keeps your cold drinks frosty for a whopping 24 hours, and your hot potions steaming for an enchanting 12 hours.
Wide Mouth Wonders: Ever struggled with getting ice cubes into a bottle without a mess? Fear not, for this bottle boasts a wide mouth opening that welcomes ice cubes with open arms, and makes cleaning a breeze. Plus, no spills! It’s like a portable, spill-free ice palace for your drinks.
BE MINDFUL OF:
Mighty Wide Mouth, Tiny Spills: Now, the wide mouth might be a gift from hydration heaven, but it’s got a trick or two up its sleeve. Sip with care, dear friend, for the wide opening might lead to a few drops here and there if you’re not careful. But hey, a small price to pay for such convenience!
Too Durable for Its Own Good?: Brace yourself for this one – the bottle’s durability is so legendary, it might outlive all your other water bottles! You might find yourself feeling a tad guilty, because this bottle can handle accidental drops and rugged terrain like a true survivor. Your other bottles might get jealous!
2.
The SLIP Silk Pillowcase For Anti-Aging
It’s the pillowcase that’s been going viral! The SLIP silk pillowcase helps to reduce wrinkles, reduce hair frizz, reduce dry skin and so much more. It comes in a bunch of color options too.
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Luxurious Comfort: Multiple reviewers can’t help but gush about how incredibly soft and cozy these silk pillowcases are. They’re like a snuggly cloud for your sleepy head, creating a luxurious sleep haven that’s hard to resist.
- Hair and Skin Magic: So many people who have bought this sing the praises of how these silk pillowcases work wonders for their hair and skin. Bid farewell to those pesky creases and wake up with less frizzy hair – these pillowcases seem to be like magical beauty sleep enhancers!
- Easy to Care For: Many highlight how easy it is to keep these pillowcases shipshape. Washing and maintaining them seems to be a breeze, making them even more enticing for busy sleepers.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Pricey Treasure: A few reviewers raise the flag of concern regarding the price. These silk pillowcases might cost a bit more compared to regular ones. But fear not, for some believe that the benefits outweigh the cost in the long run. It’s really your call.
- Delicate Darling: Some reviewers share that these silk pillowcases require delicate care during washing. Like a fine treasure, they need a bit of extra attention to keep them in shipshape condition.
3.
Recycled Record Drink Coasters
This is perfect for anyone on your Secret Santa list who loves music (who doesn’t?!) and doesn’t want to mess up their tables with drink rings! These upcycled record coasters come 6 to a set and are a perfect conversation piece.
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Unique and Eye-Catching: These coasters are like little works of art, each with its own story to tell. Their uniqueness catches the eye and brings a splash of color to any coffee table or countertop.
- Nostalgic Nods: Each coaster evokes the sweet memories of vintage vinyl records. They make the perfect retro statement and become conversation starters, especially for those who remember the golden era of music.
- Sturdy and Reliable: Reviewers love the sturdiness and functionality of these coasters. They really help with the drink drip-factor as they’re built to keep your tables safe while you enjoy your favorite beverages.
- Surprising Surprises: The element of surprise in each coaster is like discovering buried treasure. You might find the face of a beloved artist or band, creating an exciting experience each time you use one.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Genre Request Unavailable: Some wish they could request specific genres or artists for their coaster sets. While the random selection adds to the surprise, the inability to choose a preferred genre might be a minor hiccup for those with specific tastes.
- Hidden Hits: A few reviewers mention that while the coasters are a hit, the labels of the artists might not be recognizable to everyone. For some, the mystery might be part of the charm, but for others, it could seem a bit pointless.
4.
Tabletop Mini Cornhole Game
Just about everyone loves playing cornhole outside, especially in the summer but ff you can’t make it outside to play, stay warm indoors and play this wooden tabletop version of the uber-addictive game! It’s perfect for adults and kids alike. It’s about 3-feet long and even comes with 8 mini cornhole bags (in blue and red) and even the scoring pegs. First one to 21 wins!
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Suitable for All Ages: Reviewers of various age groups found this game to be a hit. From kids to adults, it’s a game that brings people together for some good old-fashioned fun.
- Great for Bonding: Many reviewers mentioned how this game became a focal point for quality family time and friendly competitions. It’s an excellent way to strengthen relationships and have a blast together.
- Indoor Entertainment: When outdoor activities aren’t an option, this game steps in as a fantastic alternative. It’s a go-to choice for keeping everyone entertained when stuck indoors.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Build Quality Issues: Some reviewers expressed concerns about the game’s durability. There were instances of boards coming unglued and lightweight bean bags that didn’t perform as expected.
- Challenging to Control: The lightweight nature of the bean bags made it a bit difficult for some players to control their throws accurately. “Getting good” at it required some practice.
5.
The 100 Movies Bucket List ‘Scratch Off’ Poster
They may think they’ve seen every one of the best movies of all time, but have they really? Now they can scratch off each movie once they’ve watched it. There are 100 must-see movies in total to scratch off. Super fun and can even be hung up on the wall.
WHAT TO LOVE:
Surprising Selection: The poster contains a cool collection of popular and lesser-known movies, making it a thrilling surprise to discover what you haven’t watched yet.
Entertaining Challenge: Reviewers loved the challenge aspect – scratching off movies they’ve seen and taking on the mission to watch those they haven’t. It’s like a movie-themed treasure hunt!
Family and Friends Fun: Many reviewers highlighted how this poster brought families and friends together for awesome movie nights. It’s not just a poster, but an invitation to share fun movie experiences.
Solid Quality: The heavy-duty cardstock material of the poster impressed reviewers. It’s not flimsy; it feels sturdy and well-made.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Scratch-Off Challenge: While the scratch-off feature is cool, it can sometimes be a bit tedious. Some reviewers noted that the gray scratches didn’t come off easily, leading to some extra cleaning effort.
- Tricky Storage: The size of the poster can make storage a bit of a puzzle. It might not fit just anywhere, so keep that in mind when planning where to put it.
6.
The Set of 2 Avocado Huggers
The absolute best way to keep your avocado protected if you’re not going to eat the whole thing. We usually eat the whole thing (as we are obsessed with all things avocado) but slip these silicone sleeves to slip right over one half and they’ll last so much longer! These little cuties come as a pack of 2.
WHAT TO LOVE:
- No More Plastic Wrap Drama: People were tired of struggling with plastic wrap to keep their avocados fresh. This cool gadget gave them a better way to save their avocados without the hassle.
- Avocado Hugging Skills: Reviewers found that this avocado hugger actually worked! It kept their avocados from browning too quickly, which is like magic for avocado lovers (like us).
- Fit for All Sizes: Some reviewers praised the hugger for fitting both large and small avocados. It’s like a one-size-fits-all superhero cape for your avocados!
- Earth-Friendly: Since it replaces plastic wrap, this hugger is like a little green superhero for the planet. Reviewers loved being able to save their avocados and save the Earth at the same time.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Hugger Hiccups: Some reviewers had a hard time getting the hugger on their avocados. It’s like trying to put a tight sweater on a squirmy pet!
- Not Perfect: While the hugger helped, it wasn’t 100% perfect. Avocados still browned a bit, but at a slower pace. It’s like a shield that protects, but not completely!
- Fit for the Pit: A clever reviewer found that using the hugger on the avocado half with the pit worked best. It’s like letting the pit and the hugger team up for avocado freshness!
7.
The Official Friendship Bracelet
It’s one of Pura Vida’s top selling bracelets and you can either keep it for yourself, split it with your BFF, or even split it with multiple friends. It comes with 10 different colorful “strings” to share!
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Durability Champ: People are raving about how these bracelets are like superheroes of durability. They’ve lasted for years! It’s like having a magical accessory that never wants to leave your side.
- Colorful Joy: Reviewers can’t get enough of the vibrant colors. It’s like having a rainbow on your wrist, spreading happiness and summer vibes wherever you go!
- Friendship Magic: These bracelets are like tokens of friendship spells. People are giving them to friends, family, coworkers, and even students! It’s like sharing a piece of your heart with everyone you care about.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Sharing Frenzy: Some folks found the bracelets so amazing that they ran out of them quickly! It’s like having a delicious treat that disappears faster than you can say “bracelet buddies.”
- Not Enough: A few reviewers wish they had more bracelets to share because everyone fell in love with them. It’s like having a magical bag that’s never-ending, full of wonderful surprises!
8.
The 1 Minute Mimosa Kit
Once they have their favorite champagne, all they’ll have to do is drop one of these flavor cubes in and, within one minute, they’ll have a uniquely flavored drink. No juice needed! You can even choose from citrus, berries, peaches, and more.
WHAT TO LOVE:
Gift Galore: People are calling these cubes the ultimate gift magic. It’s like handing out bottles of joy to your friends and family. Great for any occasion, really!
Quality Star: Reviewers are applauding the stellar quality of these cubes. They’re like little flavor wizards that dissolve with grace and charm, transforming your drink into a delightful brunching experience.
Quick Mimosas: Imagine sipping a mimosa without all the hassle. These cubes are like instant potion mixers, turning your regular drink into a burst of flavors. Perfect for brunches with pals!
Visual Sparkle: These cubes are like fairy dust for your glass. They add a shimmering spectacle that’s not just for the eyes but also for the taste buds. It’s like a dazzling fireworks show in your drink!
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Flavor Whispers: Some reviewers wished the flavors were a bit more vocal. It’s like the cubes played a little game of hide-and-seek with their taste, leaving some folks wanting more excitement.
- Sip Shortfall: A handful of taste testers found that a single cube didn’t always fulfill their flavor desires. It’s like expecting a grand feast and getting just a hint of a delicious aroma. It’s ok to add two cubes if you want a more flavorful experience.
9.
The Carry On ‘Moscow Mule’ Cocktail Kit
Why wait for the flight attendant to get around the making you your favorite cocktail? Now you can pretty much make it on your own right at your seat (or desk at work).
Each cute little kit comes with everything you’ll need to make two Moscow Mule cocktails – even the ginger drink syrup!
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Your True Travel Companion: Now, picture this scenario: you’re high up in the sky on a plane, and yet, you’re sipping top-notch cocktails. That’s the magic of this kit – it’s a portable party! Take the party vibes wherever you go.
- Improved Packaging: Here’s the cool part – the creators of the kit listened to feedback. They spruced up the packaging game, so there are no more stickers directly on the items. It’s like they gave the kit a stylish makeover, just for you!
- Cute and Handy: Size isn’t everything, right? This kit might be small, but it packs a punch. Reviewers are calling it the perfect little gift, the kind that brings a big, bright smile. It’s like a tiny treasure trove of fun.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Pricey Vibes: Now, here’s where some folks hit a bump. They love the kit but wish it came with a slightly smaller price tag. It’s like being at a super cool store but holding back because of the budget.
- BYO Stuff: Surprise alert! You need to bring your own vodka, club soda, and lime to the cocktail party. It’s like showing up at a friend’s house and realizing you’re in charge of snacks. A bit of a letdown, but it does come with everything else you need.
10.
Aaron’s Crazy Unicorn Thinking Putty
Because, let’s face it, everyone is stressed out these days and some glow-in-the-dark magical unicorn stress putty will just make anyone feel better, from kids to tweens and teens to adults. It doesn’t matter who your Secret Santa is, this will help chill everybody out!
WHAT TO LOVE:
Ultimate Fidgeter’s Dream: Imagine having a magical putty that’s like a fidgeter’s paradise. Folks are saying that Aaron’s Silly Putty is their go-to fidget toy, keeping those restless hands busy and distracted. It’s like having a little personal playground on your desk!
Endless Entertainment: Brace yourself for this – kids and adults alike are falling in love with this putty’s charm. It’s like a treasure chest of imagination! Whether it’s creating sparkly mermaid tales or enchanting unicorn adventures, the possibilities are endless.
Stress Buster Extraordinaire: Get this – some reviewers found solace in this putty during stressful moments. It’s like having a superhero in your pocket, ready to rescue you from anxiety. The stretchy, squishy texture is like a cozy hug for your hands.
Glow-in-the-Dark Magic: Prepare to be amazed – certain varieties of Aaron’s Silly Putty can glow in the dark!
BE MINDFUL OF:
Sticky Situations: Here’s the thing – while the putty is great fun, a few reviewers found it to be quite sticky. They warn that it can stick to things unexpectedly, like a playful little troublemaker. So, be prepared for some sticky situations!
Tin Troubles: Brace yourself for the tin tale – some folks found the tin container a bit challenging. It’s like a puzzle box that’s sometimes hard to open. While the putty’s a joy, the container might be on a mission to keep you guessing.
Stain Woes: Picture this – while the putty is magical, it can sometimes leave behind a greasy stain on clothes or fabric. It’s like a mischievous artist with a flair for painting in unexpected places. So, be mindful of where you place it.
11.
The SipCaddy Portable Wine Glass Holder
Now they can bring their wine pretty much anywhere they go, you know, like the bathtub! Don’t worry beer fans, this will also hold your bottle too! It’s totally portable, will stick to most surfaces, and can hold up to 7 lbs. If you have 7lbs worth of wine in the bathtub, call us!
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Cocktail Paradise: So, folks are saying that this caddy is practically their new BFF! It’s like having a butler for your shower, holding your favorite cocktails while you soak away the day’s worries. Cheers to relaxation!
- Stickiness Sensation: The suction game is strong with this one, my friend. People are all smiles when they stick it on glass surfaces. Picture this: your shower partner staying put like a well-behaved sidekick, holding your beverages with pride.
- Travel Buddy: Get this – some reviewers are calling it the ultimate travel hack! Imagine having this trusty sidekick on an 8-hour flight. It’s like having a personal drink holder to make your journey a whole lot cooler.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Tricky Textures: Brace yourself for some texture troubles – reviewers have discovered that this caddy can be a bit moody. Some had some minor issues with it sticking on textured walls. So, smooth surfaces are its best friends.
12.
The Ice Cream “Freeze” Bowl
How terrible is it when your ice cream turns into warm soup when you don’t eat it fast enough? Sure, we don’t have that problem, but so many people do. Simply place this right in the freezer and your ice cream will stay nice and cold (and at the perfect temp) for hours.
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Just Right Size: Behold, a bowl that’s perfect for a couple of scoops or a petite cereal portion. Reviewers are raving about its size, calling it the Goldilocks of dessert bowls. It’s like having a bowl that knows exactly how much you need for your frozen treat adventure.
- Mystical Chilling: Picture this – a bowl that defies the laws of dessert physics, keeping your ice cream Arctic-level cold. It’s like having a mini freezer in your hands, guarding your sweet treasures until the last bite.
- Frozen Fun Forever: Revel in the durability of these bowls! They’re hailed as tough warriors, standing up to the challenges of the kitchen battlefield. Dishwasher or hand wash, they come out unscathed, ready for the next chilly escapade.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Size Matters: Brace yourselves for the size conundrum. Some found the bowls a tad too small for their grand dessert visions. If you’re looking for a giant bowl that can hold a pint, you may want to consider something else.
- Gel Dilemma: Some reviewers wished there was more magical cooling gel to help keep their treats cooler for longer.
13.
The DIY Fortune Cookie Kit
If you’re tired of the same old Secret Santa gifts, we can almost guarantee no one has purchased this one yet! This DIY fortune cookie maker is a super fun (and yummy) activity you can do yourself or with your family and friends. The easy-to-follow kit has everything you need to make your own delicious fortune cookies.
WHAT TO LOVE:
- DIY Delight: Imagine a magical kit that lets you create your own fortune cookies with a sprinkle of effort and a dash of fun. Reviews reveal the joy of crafting edible treasures, perfect for ringing in the new year or sharing positivity. It’s like becoming a fortune teller for your taste buds!
- Easy Breezy: Behold, a kit that’s as easy as pie (or should we say, cookies)! Foodies young and old can join the cookie-making party. Instructions are clear and step-by-step, guiding you to crafting edible masterpieces. It’s like having a personal baking wizard by your side.
- Ink Magic: Brace yourselves for a surprise – an edible ink pen! Reviews unveil the wonder of writing your own fortunes. Who knew that ink could be deliciously creative? It’s like turning a cookie into a canvas and letting your imagination run wild.
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Cookie Quantity Quest: Brace yourselves for a cookie mystery – a kit that might leave you craving for more cookies. Some reviewers felt that for the price, more cookie-baking magic could have been included. It’s like baking up a storm and wishing you had more cookies to share.
- Expiration Quest: Embark on a quest for longer shelf-life! Some found themselves puzzled by the short expiration date of the kit’s ingredients. Just a heads up.
14.
The DIY Lip Balm Making Kit
A super fun Secret Santa gift for the kiddos who are into making things themselves. This 73-piece lip balm making kit comes with just about everything they’ll need to make their own unique balms for either themselves, to gift, or even to sell!
WHAT TO LOVE:
- Easy Peasy Creating: Hold onto your lip balms – this adventure is easy as pie! Explorers as young as 10-13 embarked on a lip balm journey, whipping up balms like seasoned pros. It’s like baking cookies, but for your lips!
- Natural Elixir: The ingredients are as natural as a lush forest! Reviewers share excitement over all-natural ingredients, creating balms that are good for you and your lips. It’s like sipping a smoothie, but for your lips!
- Balm Bonanza: Brace yourselves for a balmy surprise – not one, not two, but three fantastic recipes! You can uncover the joy of experimenting with different recipes, creating a variety of lip balms. It’s like having a treasure chest of lip care, waiting to be explored!
BE MINDFUL OF:
Tube Troubles: Brace yourselves for a possible lip balm dilemma – speedy solidification! Some reviewers discovered that their lip balm mixture solidified quickly, making pouring a bit challenging. But fear not – the microwave magic returns, and the balm flows again.
15.
The Official BBQ Meat Claws
These claws are your go-to solution for effortlessly shredding beef, chicken, turkey, pulled pork, and more, making grilling and barbecuing a breeze. These claws also shine as a cutting tool for tackling large pieces of meat like ham, bacon, and roasts, ensuring a safer and more secure grip. You can also use them for mixing salads, pastas, and vegetables, adding an exciting twist to your favorite dishes.
WHAT TO LOVE:
- No More Burns: These claws save your fingers from getting burned when handling hot meats like roasts. Ouch, no more finger sizzles!
- Time-Saver: They speed up the process of pulling pork for parties or meal prepping. More time to enjoy the tasty food!
BE MINDFUL OF:
- Slightly Cheap Feel: Some feel that the claws could be sturdier and easier to hold. But patience pays off!
- Greasy Hands Slippery: If your hands are greasy, the plastic claws might get slippery.
In Conclusion:
So, there you go. We’ve come up with a bunch of really cool and unique ideas for your next Secret Santa gift exchange. We tackled things for the outdoor guy, the beauty lover, the kids who have everything, DIY essentials, and just about everything in between. All of these gift ideas really are perfect for those who already have everything!
