What Is a White Elephant Gift Exchange?

May 7, 2023

On a day before Christmas Eve, there’s a chance that you might get invited by your friends to a white elephant gift exchange. Never heard of it? No problem! We’re here to break down the term to you. We’ll also share some gift ideas so you don’t need to scratch your head when receiving such an invitation.

What is a white elephant gift exchange? White elephant is a fun gift exchange occasion where the participants bring a small wrapped gift with a set price range. They take turns choosing a present to unwrap or stealing someone else’s. If someone’s gift gets stolen, they can either steal someone else’s or choose a new gift. Finally, the game ends when all gifts are unwrapped.

So, read on to discover the origin and rules of this game, and get our suggestions for some suitable gifts for the occasion.

White Elephant Gift Exchange: The Origin and History

So, you might be thinking about the white elephant gift origin. Why is it called white elephant? It sounds weird for a gift exchange game, doesn’t it? And what has it got to do with the color white or these majestic animals?

According to history, the King of Siam (present-day Thailand) used to give white elephants to those who he had a beef with. This was because the extravagant upkeep costs of these holy creatures would lead those people to bankruptcy.

Getting a white elephant was similar to a death sentence at one time. But hey, it’s all about a fun Christmas game these days. So, it appears that the origin story has little to do with the white elephant gift exchange meaning these days.

Some people get confused between white elephant vs dirty Santa. Well, they are the same game but the names get changed depending on the USA county you live in. Also, the rules could be slightly different from one place to another but the game themes are similar.

White Elephant Gift Exchange Rules

So how do you play white elephant Christmas game? That’s pretty easy only if you follow the white elephant gift rules given below:

Everyone must bring a gift. It could be a useless household item or something within the price fixed by the host.
The presents must be wrapped and must not have a name tag on them because discretion is essential for this game.
To decide who goes first and who comes after, you can usually draw numbers. But if you want, you can try out the spin-the-bottle method instead to select the first person to go.
The first person picks a present from the pile and opens it. Then, the second person can either take that gift or choose a new one to open.
If your present is taken, you can pick another one out of the collection.
You and other players can only take away each present twice at most, and then it can no longer be stolen.
The game is over after everyone gets a present.

Top 11 Gifts For White Elephant Gift Exchange

We’ve curated a list of practical and funny gift items for this special game.

1. LoveHandle PRO Premium

If you’re looking for a killer white elephant gift, check out the LoveHandle PRO Premium! This sweet little phone accessory is so thin and sleek you’ll forget it’s even there, but it’ll make texting and selfies a breeze with just one hand.

The kickstand feature is perfect for watching videos whenever you want. Plus, it comes with extra clear 3M adapter adhesive, which looks compatible with fancy glass or silicone phone cases.

2. DASH Mini Maker

This is so fun, easy to use, and makes the most adorable little waffles, cookies, and more. There might be a bit of a learning curve for the lucky recipient to get the cooking technique right, but it’s nothing too tricky. Plus, this little guy is so small that your friends can store it anywhere.

And the best part? It’s totally affordable, so you won’t break the bank to add deliciousness to your white elephant gift exchange!

3. HyperChiller HC2 Beverage Cooler

If you have friends who love coffee and beverages, what can be a better option than the HyperChiller? No more waiting around for drinks to cool down; you can have a perfectly chilled beverage in just 60 to 90 seconds.

It’s perfect for busy mornings or hot summer days when you need a quick cooldown. Just pour your drink into the chamber and wait a minute; no dilution from ice cubes is required! You can use it for cooling everything from coffee to whiskey, wine, and other beverages.

4. Pooping Pooches White Elephant Gag Gift Calendar

All dog lovers will have a good laugh receiving this gift. Each month unveils a new photo of real dogs answering nature calls.

At less than $20, it’s an affordable treat that keeps people chuckling all year long. And with $1 of each sale donated to help shelter pups find forever homes, it’s a fun way to spread more tails of joy.

5. JEDIST Mini Desk Vacuum Cleaner

The JEDIST mini desk vacuum cleaner could be a hit item in a white elephant gift exchange game. It can be a perfect solution to clean up those disgusting crumbs and dust on the desks.

With its amazing suction power, the vacuum can easily clean up all those nasty bits and pieces that are usually found on keyboards and work desks.

The vacuum has bristles on the bottom to make it even more effective. And it’s super easy to empty, so there is no need to worry about the hassle. This is a white elephant gift that everyone will love and appreciate.

6. ASUTRA Silk Eye Pillow

The silk eye pillow from ASUTRA is an amazing sleeping accessory. Using 100% silk makes it super soft and gentle on the eyes. Filled with soothing lavender and flax seeds, the lovely scents will take the bedtime routine to the next level.

Besides, the mask will be good for increasing concentration during yoga, meditation, and any other relaxation techniques. It even comes with a cooling gel eye mask to give your tired eyes a proper rest.

7. Prank Gift Box Shower Margarita Machine

Looking for an ultimate fun white elephant gift? Look no further than this hilarious shower margarita machine gift box. The gift box claims to have a shower margarita machine, which sounds too good to be true, right? Yes, you’re right. Such machines don’t exist, so you will get an empty box instead.

Funny, right? Well, that’s the definition of white elephant gift, funny and useless most of the time.

8. OontZ Angle Solo – Bluetooth Portable Speaker

Your friends will fight over to get their hands on the OontZ Angle Solo portable speaker during the game. It boasts seamless controls and crystal clear sound. The little box can get pretty loud without creating any distortion. Pair it up with another OontZ Angle Solo speaker for a true stereo experience.

With a battery life that lasts for months, this speaker will keep the tunes pumping all day and night. And don’t worry about breaking it, as the case is built tough and sturdy.

9. VITTYL Mini Bowling Game Set

The little mini bowling set can get everyone hooked in a white elephant gift exchange game. At only about the size of a shoebox, it’s small enough to tuck away in a backpack.

Set it up on any tabletop, desk or countertop for some casual fun on your breaks at work or home. Want to relieve some stress after a long day? Just roll a few frames of mini bowling; it’s the perfect mindless distraction.

Kids will go crazy for this bowling set too; it’s the ideal learning toy to help build skills without them even realizing it. Mini bowling is a game the whole family can enjoy together without taking up too much space.

10. Wisedom Dad Bag Fanny Pack & 3D Beer Belly Waist Pack

Poking fun at someone’s dad bod seems like a perfect gag gift for a white elephant game. Designed to look like a barrel belly, the fanny pack is guaranteed to make everyone laugh.

However, the funny look does not make it less functional. It’s made of water-resistant material and is spacious enough for keys, phones, and other small accessories. The zipper closure will keep everything secure even when you stumble around.

11. RAINBEAN 71IN Burritos Blankets

Last on the list of the white elephant gift exchange is the burritos tortilla blanket from RAINBEAN. It’s perfect for snuggling up on the couch, taking a nap, or even for a funny photoshoot.

This soft and cozy blanket is lightweight but still warm enough to use outside on a chilly evening. Plus, it looks so realistic that you might even start craving a real burrito.

FAQs About White Elephant Gift Exchange

Why is it called white elephant?

The term “white elephant gift exchange” refers to a game in which people exchange inexpensive, humorous, or unusual gifts. The game is typically played during the holiday season or at parties, and the gifts are usually wrapped in a way that hides their contents until they are opened.

The term “white elephant” in this context has its origins in the idea of a “gift elephant” – a rare and exotic animal that would be given as a gift, but would be difficult and expensive to care for. In modern times, the term “white elephant” has come to be associated with something that is impractical, useless, or unwanted.

The white elephant gift exchange game is designed to be lighthearted and fun, with participants bringing gifts that are amusing or quirky rather than valuable. The goal is to have a good time and enjoy the company of others, rather than to exchange gifts of high value or significance.

In the game, participants draw numbers to determine the order in which they will choose a wrapped gift from a central pile. Each subsequent participant can choose to either “steal” a gift that has already been opened, or select a new wrapped gift from the pile. The game continues until all gifts have been opened, with the final participant having the option to “steal” any previously opened gift.

How do White Elephant gift exchanges work?

Here’s how the White Elephant gift exchange game typically works:

Set a gift price limit: Participants agree on a price limit for gifts. This can be anything from a few dollars to a more substantial amount, depending on the group’s preferences.

Bring a wrapped gift: Each participant brings a wrapped gift to the exchange, without revealing what’s inside.

Draw numbers: Participants draw numbers to determine the order in which they will select a gift.

Choose a gift: The participant with the first number selects a gift from the pile and opens it for everyone to see.

The next person chooses: The next person can choose to either select a new gift from the pile or “steal” the gift that has already been opened by the previous person.

Keep going: The game continues in this way, with each subsequent person either selecting a new gift or stealing an already opened one.

The game ends when all gifts have been selected or stolen. At this point, the person with the first number can choose to keep their gift, or they can steal a gift from someone else.

The rules of a White Elephant gift exchange can vary depending on the group’s preferences, and there are many variations of the game, such as “Dirty Santa” or “Yankee Swap.” However, the general idea is to have fun, be playful, and enjoy the process of exchanging gifts with friends, family, or colleagues.

Is White Elephant a Christmas tradition?

White Elephant gift exchanges are often associated with the Christmas holiday season, but they are not a traditional Christmas tradition. The origins of the White Elephant gift exchange game are not religious in nature and do not have any connection to the story of the Nativity or other traditional Christmas customs.

However, the game has become a popular activity during the holiday season, and many people choose to incorporate it into their Christmas celebrations as a fun and lighthearted way to exchange gifts with friends, family, or colleagues.

It’s worth noting that White Elephant gift exchanges are not exclusive to Christmas, and the game can be played at any time of year. The game is popular at parties and social gatherings, and many workplaces and community groups organize White Elephant gift exchanges as a way to build camaraderie and celebrate together.

Is white elephant like Secret Santa?

In a Secret Santa game, each participant is assigned a specific person to whom they will give a gift. The identity of the gift giver is usually kept secret, and the gift is typically chosen based on the recipient’s preferences or interests. The focus is on giving a thoughtful and personalized gift to one specific person.

In contrast, in a White Elephant game, participants bring a wrapped gift without knowing who will receive it. The gifts are usually quirky or humorous rather than personalized, and the focus is on the fun and playful nature of the game. Participants take turns choosing a wrapped gift, with the option to steal a previously opened gift if they prefer.

Another key difference is that Secret Santa games often involve a price limit or budget, while White Elephant games may or may not have a specific budget. Additionally, Secret Santa games are often played among close friends or family members, while White Elephant games are more commonly played in larger groups, such as workplaces or social clubs.

What is the difference between White Elephant and Yankee Swap?

In a White Elephant game, participants bring a wrapped gift without knowing who will receive it. The gifts are usually quirky or humorous rather than personalized, and participants take turns choosing a wrapped gift, with the option to steal a previously opened gift if they prefer. The focus is on having fun and enjoying the playful nature of the game.

In a Yankee Swap game, participants also bring a wrapped gift, but the gifts are usually more practical or useful, rather than humorous or quirky. Participants take turns choosing a wrapped gift from a central pile, and can choose to keep their gift or swap it with someone else’s gift. Unlike in a White Elephant game, there is no limit to the number of times a gift can be swapped.

Another key difference is that White Elephant games are often played with a large group of people, such as at a workplace or social club, while Yankee Swap games are usually played with a smaller group of family members or close friends.

Final Words

The white elephant gift exchange is a unique and entertaining way to bring people together for some holiday cheer.

Whether it’s with friends, family, or coworkers, this game is sure to create laughter, memories, and perhaps even some friendly competition.