The classic rules at a glance
Secret Santa Rules
Seven rules, why they work, and a few house rules that stop arguments before they start.
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1
Draw one nameYou buy for that person and nobody else.
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2
Keep it secretNot even your closest friend gets to know.
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3
Stay in budgetSame limit for everyone, tax and shipping included unless agreed.
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4
Give one giftOne thoughtful gift, not a pile.
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5
Wrap it and label itThe recipient's name goes on it, never yours.
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6
Deliver anonymouslyBy the deadline. Late beats never, but the deadline lets everyone open together.
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7
Reveal, or don'tThe group decides before the draw.
Why the rules exist
- The secretmakes it fun
- An equal budgetkeeps it fair
- One giftkeeps it manageable
- Wrap and labelkeeps it smooth
- An agreed revealspares anyone being put on the spot
Our exchange (fill in and share)
Budget
Gift deadline
Leave gifts at
Reveal givers? Yes No
Secret Santa Rules page 2: house rules, special situations and quick answers
House rules worth adding
- A price range, not just a cap, so no one gets a much cheaper gift
- Gift cards: allowed or not? Decide up front
- Handmade counts? Say how it compares with the budget
- No joke gifts that just get thrown out
- Allergies and dietary needs: check with the organizer
- Returns and swaps: allowed, or not
- Everyone shares a line or two of gift ideas
Special situations
- Couples and housematesUsually can't draw each other.
- Families with kidsA simpler version, a lower budget, a parent to help shop.
- New colleaguesMake clear it's optional, and explain what the group does.
- Manager and teamAgree a lower budget so nobody overspends on the boss.
- Remote groupsAdd a posting date, not just a delivery day.
Quick answers
- Can I tell my Secret Santa who I am?You can, but it spoils the fun. Wait for the reveal.
- Can I trade names?Traditionally no. Ask the organizer privately if you truly can't.
- I drew someone I barely know.Ask for gift ideas. Small, useful and considered beats clever.