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How to run a Secret Santa

How to run a Secret Santa
Photo: US Navy, Brian Stone, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

A Secret Santa means everyone gets one good gift instead of buying for everyone.

1. Set the basics

  • Budget: one fixed amount for everyone.
  • Date: when gifts will be swapped.
  • Rules: wish lists, no gag gifts, or anything you agree on.

2. Draw names

Use our Secret Santa generator. It draws names in your browser, can stop couples drawing each other, and gives each person a private link that shows only who they are buying for. Nothing is stored on our server.

3. Share wish lists

Ask everyone for three ideas within the budget.

4. The swap

Open gifts one at a time and let people guess their Santa, or keep it secret for good.

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