If you’re hosting a holiday get-together this year, there’s no easier way to spark laughter, chaos, and unforgettable moments than a classic White Elephant Gift exchange. It’s silly, surprising, and just the right amount of mischievous—exactly what a Christmas gathering needs to feel fun instead of formal. Ready to turn your holiday party into everyone’s favorite tradition? Let’s jump in.

How to Play White Elephant the Fun Way

The rules of a White Elephant Gift exchange are simple, but making the game truly fun takes a little planning, creativity, and the right vibe. Here’s a clear and lively guide to help you run the game like a pro.

1. Prepare the Gifts (Build the Gift Pool)

Ask everyone to bring one nicely wrapped gift to place in the center. The magic of this game lies in surprises—gifts can be funny, practical, weird, or totally ridiculous. Most groups set a price limit (like $20–$40) so everyone plays on the same level.

2. Draw Numbers for Turn Order

Place numbers in a bowl and have everyone draw one. The person with the lowest number goes first, and the person with the highest number gets the coveted “last-move advantage”—often the most powerful spot in the game.

3. Unwrap or Steal

On your turn, you can either open a new gift from the pile or steal one that someone has already unwrapped. If your gift gets stolen, you can choose to steal from someone else or pick a new one. To keep things organized, most groups set a rule that each gift can only be stolen three times.

4. The Final Twist

Because the last player has seen every opened gift, they can usually pick the best one—making that final slot the ultimate plot twist. This also encourages people to bring creative, desirable gifts that stir up a bit of friendly chaos.

5. Add House Rules for Extra Fun

If you want the game to feel more festive, add optional house rules:

Anyone stealing a gift must perform a 5-second Christmas dance
A gift stolen three times earns its owner a small “bonus gift”
Players must say a holiday blessing or a funny line when unwrapping

How to Host a Fun & Unforgettable White Elephant Gift Party This Christmas

How to Make Your White Elephant Game Extra Fun This Holiday Season

If there’s one party tradition that guarantees laughs, surprises, and a little friendly chaos, it’s the White Elephant Gift exchange. It’s simple, fun, and the perfect way to bring people together during the holidays — but with the right approach, you can make the game even more memorable. Here’s how to elevate the experience from “fun” to “unforgettable,” starting with the gift, the setup, and the final touches of holiday wishes.

1. Pick Gifts That Spark Reactions

The magic of White Elephant comes from the mix of unexpected, quirky, and genuinely useful gifts. When choosing what to bring, think in terms of reactions — something that makes people laugh, something surprisingly practical, or something delightfully random that nobody knew they needed. Gifts that can be stolen more than once usually fall somewhere between “hilarious” and “actually really nice,” which keeps the game running longer and the excitement high.

2. Set the Scene for Maximum Fun

A great setup makes the whole game feel more festive. Arrange seating in a circle so everyone can see each reveal and every dramatic gift steal. Add cozy lighting, holiday music, and a small serving station for snacks or hot drinks. If you’re hosting indoors or outdoors, a few well-placed pieces of furniture — like a comfy sectional or a stylish side table — can make the gathering feel warm, shared, and easy to navigate as people get up to swap gifts.

The more inviting the space feels, the more energy the game has.

3. Add a Meaningful Twist with Holiday Wishes

A simple way to make your White Elephant game more heartwarming is to add a moment of gratitude or wishes before the final round. Invite guests to share something they’re thankful for this year, or a small hope for the new year. It takes just a minute or two, but it adds a deeper connection and makes the laughter feel even richer. Holiday games are fun — but holiday memories last longer.

Once the game is over and the laughter settles, a well-designed home is what keeps the holiday energy going. If your space needs a refresh before hosting your next gathering, Homary has plenty of stylish, functional pieces that make holiday entertaining easier — from cozy seating to festive-ready décor. Whether you're prepping for another party or simply upgrading your home for the season, it’s the perfect time to explore what Homary has to offer.

How to Host a Fun & Unforgettable White Elephant Gift Party This Christmas

A great White Elephant Gift exchange isn’t just about the presents — it’s the laughter, the surprises, and the warm Christmas energy you create for everyone in the room. And if you want your home to feel extra welcoming this season, the right furniture and décor can make a huge difference.

With Black Friday rolling in, it’s the perfect moment to upgrade your space without stretching your budget. Homary Furniture is offering some of the biggest discounts of the year, so you can refresh your hosting setup, elevate your holiday vibe, and get ready for a Christmas party that feels truly unforgettable.

Happy gifting — and happy shopping!

How to Host a Fun & Unforgettable White Elephant Gift Party This Christmas

A practical guide to mastering the White Elephant Gift game—from rules and gift ideas to décor tips that make your Christmas party