Secret Santa rules: how to play and organize it

The basic rules

1. Everyone who joins is assigned exactly one other person to buy a gift for.
2. Keep your assignment secret until the reveal, even from close friends.
3. Stay within the agreed budget. Don't overspend or underspend.
4. Everyone receives one gift, so everyone must take part to keep it fair.
5. Give your gift by the agreed date, wrapped and labelled for the recipient.

Decide these four things before you draw

• Budget. Ten to twenty-five pounds is typical. Set a minimum too, so nobody gets a £2 gag gift next to a £25 present.
• Deadline. The date names are drawn, and the date gifts are due.
• Reveal. In person, in a group chat, or by delivery for remote groups.
• Theme (optional). Homemade, books, something from your hometown, or something under a set price keeps ideas flowing.

A simple timeline

• 3 to 4 weeks before: announce the rules and collect names.
• 3 weeks before: draw the names and share the link.
• 2 weeks before: wishlists in, so people can order early.
• Reveal day: hand over the gifts.

Etiquette that keeps everyone happy

• Ask for hints instead of guessing. A wishlist is the easiest way.
• Avoid gifts that are very personal, risky for allergies, or hard to return.
• If you can't take part any more, tell the organizer early so they can fix the draw.
• Thank your Santa, even if you can't guess who it was.

Run it online in a minute

The Secret Santa generator draws the names, keeps each match private behind a PIN and lets everyone add a wishlist. For groups at work, see the office Secret Santa guide.