Learn the
A white elephant gift exchange isn’t your run-of-the-mill gift exchange. It’s a popular Christmas gathering for those looking for ways to make their next family or office gift exchange more interactive and fun. The gifts are usually not practical and humorous in nature. You’re also allowed to steal presents if you happen to fancy them more than opening a new one. It’s naughty and nice. The spirit of giving meets the spirit of taking. It is so much fun!
All you need is a group of people willing to bring some gifts and have some fun. White elephant rules can vary, but here are the basics.
As the game grows in popularity, new ideas and variations have been incorporated with the goal of either keeping the game moving and/or making it more strategic. Here are couple fun rules and variations you might want to try at your gift exchange:
Three Steals and You’re Out
If the gift you are holding gets stolen three times during the game, you are considered out of the game and can no longer be stolen from. The last present you choose is your final gift.
Three Swaps and the Gift is Out
If a present gets stolen three times, it’s out of the game and the person who holds owns it. Congratulations!
No Extra Turn/No Extra Swapping
Some people don’t allow the first player to steal a gift at the end.
One Extra Turn
This variation only allows for the first person to swap once with no additional swapping allowed after.
Gift Themes
The organizer will suggest people to bring a gift that fits a certain theme. Outdoors, Travel, Ornaments, Do-it-Yourself Crafts, etc.