Just this past year, I needed a Secret Santa gift idea when my husband’s family tried out a form of the Secret Santa gift exchange. In the end, we did reveal our identities to each other, so the secrets were out. It turned out to be a fun way to exchange gifts because I put all my energy into finding a special gift for one person, instead of scrambling to come up with a gift for every family member. The way we did it, we each put our name on a slip of paper and every person drew one of the papers out of a bag. Whatever name you drew, you became that person’s Secret Santa. As most people do, we set a low price limit and everyone pretty much stuck to it. We all saved money and everyone got a nice gift!

The 25 Secret Santa gift ideas I have listed are good for co-workers, family, small groups, school mates or any group. They cost between five to twenty dollars. Have fun with your Secret Santa gift exchange!

1. Deck of cards and book of card game rules

2. Set of Gel pens and stationary

3. A Bulb with instructions how to force blooming

4. Holiday serving bowl or platter

5. Decorative napkins and napkin rings

6. Fancy chocolate bars tied with a ribbon (try some from other countries)

7. Makeup brush set or beard trimmer

8. Photo album

9. A Holiday Childrens’ Story

10. Special soaps and bath puff or natural sponge

11. Colorful Post-It notepads

12. Pretty glass jar or small toolbox filled with candy

13. Picture frames

14. Set of dish towels and dish cloths

15. Note cards and book of stamps

16. Nail polish kit

17. Night shirt or pajamas

18. Basket filled with kitchen gadgets

19. Video rental gift certificates

20. Disposable camera

21. Address book

22. Prepaid long distance phone cards

23. Small clock or radio

24. Pretty box for keepsakes

25. Last, but not least: home baked cookies or logs of frozen unbaked cookie dough!