Secret Santa Or White Elephant, What’s The Difference?

Which game and what gifts work the best?

POSTED BY ANITA MOWETE

What’s Christmas without gifts? You might be someone who finishes their Christmas shopping as early as Black Friday. Or you’re one who crosses the finish line just in time by making all your purchases on Christmas Eve. The point is, you probably buy at least one gift during this season.

So why not make a game of it? You’ve probably participated in a round of Secret Santa at your workplace or school. Or maybe you’ve done White Elephant with your family or friends. But have you ever wondered what the difference is?

Let’s start with Secret Santa. The rules are in the name. You know who you’re getting a present for, but (should) have no clue who’s getting a gift for you. You can randomize the names by picking papers from a hat but there’s also websites where they mix up the names for you then let your Secret Santa know via email. 

White Elephant shares similarities with Secret Santa. But it’s not about getting the best gift, it’s about getting a laugh. Here’s how it's commonly played. Everyone brings a gift and puts them together. Then through choosing numbers the order of picking gifts is decided. You can either unwrap a new gift or steal one from someone else. When you run out of turns you have to keep the gift in your hand, no matter how impractical it is or how unlikely you are to use it.

So you have a choice between a standard gifting experience or an activity where everyone is encouraged to get creative with their choices.

The great thing is that both games can work in the same environments. If you’re part of a relaxed working environment then White Elephant might go down a treat. Or if you’re the supreme gift giver in your friend or family you’ll do well with Secret Santa.

Either way, both options offer a lot of festive fun.

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