The Best Low-Cost Christmas Gift Exchange Games for a Festive Party
The holiday season is all about bringing people together, and what better way to spread cheer than with fun and affordable gift exchange games? Around 84% of Americans will be participating in some sort of gift exchange this year, with Secret Santa being the most popular. These games ensure everyone has a great time without overspending. At a time of year when many of us are concerned about our finances, these Christmas gift exchange games are a great way to have fun, embrace the season, and stick to your budget.
1. White Elephant Gift Exchange
White Elephant is a timeless favorite that adds humor and unpredictability to any Christmas party. Guests bring a wrapped gift within a predetermined budget, usually something quirky or funny. Players take turns picking a gift or “stealing” an already opened one, which keeps everyone engaged. To keep costs down, encourage participants to regift items or bring homemade presents. Adding a theme, like “gifts under $10” or “kitchen gadgets,” makes it even more entertaining. This game guarantees plenty of laughs and memorable moments for all.
It’s good to make sure everyone is on board with this kind of gift exchange though. One Reddit user pointed out that it is best if all of the gifts are kind of light-hearted in nature. “White elephant in my experience goes over a lot better if the gifts are somewhat funny and inexpensive and taken in a lighthearted way by all involved,” they wrote.
2. Secret Santa With a Twist
Secret Santa is a classic, but adding a unique twist can make it even more enjoyable. Instead of buying specific gifts for assigned individuals, have everyone bring a random item wrapped anonymously. Then, players draw names and try to guess who brought their gift based on a series of fun clues. Set a low spending limit, something between $10 and $20, to ensure affordability. This variation encourages creativity and adds a layer of mystery to the gift exchange. Some great gift ideas for this type of exchange include:
- Tea or coffee sets
- Comfortable socks or robes
- Candles
- Board games
- Small gift sets
- A cozy blanket
This TikTok influencer shares some great ideas as well…
@alltoovictoria Obsessed wjth this idea, I loved everyones gifts ????? #christmas #giftideas #favoritethingschallenge #giftexchange
3. Hot Potato Gift Swap
This high-energy game combines the thrill of Hot Potato with the excitement of gift-giving. Participants pass a wrapped gift around the circle while music plays. When the music stops, the person holding the gift gets to open it or trade it with someone else. Set a time limit for each round to keep the game moving quickly. It is usually suggested participants use small, thoughtful items like candles, socks, or holiday treats. This makes it easy to pass around, plus it will keep everything within a comfortable price point for everyone involved. The fast pace and element of surprise make this game a hit for all ages.
4. Dice Game Gift Grab
The Dice Game Gift Grab is a fun, strategic option for holiday parties. Each player brings a wrapped gift, and everyone sits in a circle with the gifts in the middle. Players take turns rolling dice, with certain numbers corresponding to actions like “swap a gift” or “steal a gift.” Set a time limit to add urgency and ensure every gift finds a new home. This game works well with inexpensive items like puzzles, ornaments, or handmade crafts. The randomness of the dice adds excitement and keeps everyone engaged.
5. Left-Right Christmas Story
The Left-Right Christmas Story game is perfect for groups of all ages and requires minimal preparation. Each participant brings a wrapped gift and sits in a circle. Read a holiday-themed story aloud, inserting the words “left” and “right” throughout. Every time those words are mentioned, players pass their gifts in that direction. When the story ends, each person keeps the gift they’re holding. To keep it cost-effective, encourage participants to use practical or regifted items. This game creates a relaxed, laughter-filled atmosphere perfect for any festive gathering.
You can find cheap left-right Christmas stories to read aloud on Etsy, ranging from The Grinch to The Night Before Christmas.
6. Bingo Gift Swap
A festive spin on traditional Bingo, this game is a crowd-pleaser that guarantees everyone gets involved. Create Bingo cards with holiday-themed words or images, such as “snowman,” “reindeer,” or “mistletoe.” Players mark their cards as the words are called, and winners get to pick or swap gifts from the pile. Set a small spending cap for gifts, like $5, to keep it accessible for all. The combination of classic Bingo fun and gift-swapping excitement makes this a party favorite. Add holiday music or snacks for extra cheer.
You can even grab a Christmas-themed Bingo card set from Amazon. This Charlie Brown set is under $18.
7. Gift Auction Extravaganza
For a unique and competitive twist, try the Gift Auction game. Each participant brings a wrapped gift and receives “play money” at the start of the game. An auctioneer presents each gift, and players bid using their fake currency. To keep it budget-friendly, encourage creative and quirky gift ideas. The playful competition adds energy and excitement, making this game a standout at any party. Everyone leaves with a gift, and the bidding wars add plenty of laughter.
Low-Cost Games, High Holiday Spirit
Christmas gift exchange games can bring something fun and memorable into your holiday celebration without putting too much strain on your wallet. You can go with more classic games, like the White Elephant or Secret Santa, or you can opt for something creative like a Bingo Gift Swap. Whatever you choose, each of these options is guaranteed to spread holiday cheer. Remember, the key is to set low spending limits or encourage regifting. This ensures everyone is able to afford the game without stressing about it. In the end, it’s all about creating new memories and traditions with friends and family.
Do you have any fun Christmas gift exchange games you play?
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.