A free, fair Secret Santa name picker
Drawing names out of a hat is fine until someone picks themselves, a couple get each other, or one person can't make it to the draw. This free Secret Santa name picker sorts it all out. Add everyone's names, block any pairs who shouldn't get each other, and draw. Then reveal the names one at a time, so each person only sees who they're buying for.
It's ideal for families, friends, offices, schools and clubs, and there's no sign-up or email addresses needed.
How to run your Secret Santa
Type in the name of everyone taking part. If there are couples or housemates who already buy for each other, add them as a blocked pair so they won't be matched. Press draw and the picker shuffles everyone fairly, making sure no one gets themselves. Then pass the device around. Each person taps to reveal only their own match, then hides it before handing it on.
If you need to start again, maybe because someone joins late, just add them and draw again.
Secret Santa rules worth agreeing on
Set a spending limit. It keeps things fair and stops anyone feeling awkward. Pick a date for the gift exchange and make sure everyone knows it. Decide whether gifts should be funny, useful or a bit of both. Agree whether the giver will be revealed at the end or stay secret forever.
It also helps to ask everyone for a few hints, like a hobby, a favourite colour or something they'd never buy themselves. A small amount of information goes a long way when you're buying for someone you don't know well.
Secret Santa gift ideas
The best Secret Santa gifts are small, thoughtful and a little bit fun. Pin badges, socks, fridge magnets, drinks coasters and funny workplace gifts all work well for office swaps with a low budget. For friends and family, a personalised card or a print with a meaningful quote can feel much more personal than its price. And don't forget the card. A funny message can be the best part of the gift.
Running Secret Santa remotely
If your group can't all be in the same room, you can still use the picker. One organiser runs the draw, then reveals each match privately and sends it to that person by text or message. Because the organiser sees all the matches, this works best if they're happy to keep a secret, or if they're not taking part themselves.
For remote teams, agree on posting deadlines well before the exchange date so gifts arrive in time, and set a budget that includes postage. A video call where everyone opens their gifts together is a lovely way to finish, and guessing who your Secret Santa was can be the best part of the whole thing.
Frequently asked questions
Can someone draw their own name? No. The picker makes sure nobody is matched with themselves.
Can I stop couples getting each other? Yes. Add them as a blocked pair before you draw.
Are the names saved? No. Nothing is stored, so close the page when you're done and it's gone.
How many people can take part? As many as you like, from a small family group to a whole office.
Looking for Secret Santa gifts? Browse our gifts, badges and Christmas range.