Gifts for White Elephant Christmas Gift Exchanges: Clever, Funny & Crowd-Pleasing Ideas

The holidays are all about laughter, good company, and, of course — a little bit of chaos. And nothing captures that festive energy quite like a White Elephant gift exchange. Whether you call it Dirty Santa, Yankee Swap, or Secret Steal, this classic party game has one simple rule: bring a wrapped gift that’s equal parts surprising, delightful, and possibly hilarious.

But choosing the perfect White Elephant gift? That’s where things get tricky. You want something that sparks laughter, doesn’t break the bank, and (ideally) doesn’t end up forgotten in a junk drawer by January.

This guide rounds up the best White Elephant gifts for 2025 — from funny and cheeky picks to clever, practical finds that everyone will be fighting over. Whether you’re shopping for coworkers, friends, or family, these gifts will make you the star of the exchange.

Understanding the White Elephant Game

Before diving into the gift list, let’s recap the basics.

The White Elephant exchange is a holiday party tradition where each person brings one wrapped gift. Players draw numbers to determine the order in which they’ll choose a gift from the pile — but here’s the twist: every time someone opens a gift, the next player can either pick a new one or steal one that’s already been opened.

That’s where the fun begins. The goal isn’t necessarily to give a “useful” gift, but to spark laughs, create competition, and make the exchange memorable.

Pro Tip:
Set a spending limit in advance — usually between $10 and $30 — so everyone’s on equal footing.

1. Funny & Gag Gifts That Always Get a Laugh

Let’s start with the heart of any White Elephant exchange — the funny gifts. These are the items that get people giggling, stealing, and retelling the story long after the party’s over.

“Emergency Underpants” Tin

Compact, silly, and surprisingly useful in a pinch. It’s the perfect blend of practicality and absurdity.

Burrito Blanket

A giant round blanket that looks like a tortilla. Wrap yourself up like a human burrito — because who doesn’t want that?

Toilet Timer for Dads or Husbands

This hilarious sand timer encourages efficiency for anyone who tends to take… long bathroom breaks.

The Screaming Goat Toy

A viral sensation for good reason — press it, and it screams. Simple. Ridiculous. Brilliant.

Decision-Making Paperweight

For indecisive coworkers, this weighted “decision maker” spins and lands on answers like “Yes,” “Ask Mom,” or “Maybe Tomorrow.”

“World’s Okayest Employee” Mug

The ultimate gift for the coworker who proudly does the bare minimum. Add some cocoa or candy for extra flair.

Cat Butt Magnets

Crude? Maybe. But these silly fridge magnets shaped like cat behinds are always a crowd favorite.

“Shower Wine Holder” Suction Cup

For anyone who jokes about needing “me time,” this clever contraption holds your wine glass mid-shower. Genius (and actually works).

2. Useful Gifts That Don’t Feel Boring

Funny gifts are great, but practical ones often get stolen the most. These are items people actually want to take home — the perfect blend of usefulness and delight.

Mini Waffle Maker

A $10 wonder that turns any breakfast into a cozy weekend treat. Perfect for college students, parents, or anyone who loves brunch.

Rechargeable Hand Warmers

A game-changer for cold weather — they’re eco-friendly, portable, and cozy. Great for commuters or outdoor workers.

Phone Stand & Ring Light Combo

Perfect for video calls, selfies, or streaming — and ideal for anyone who’s ever said “wait, let me fix my lighting.”

Reusable Grocery Bag Set

Stylish, eco-friendly, and foldable — bonus points if you pick a set in trendy patterns.

Cozy Slippers or Fuzzy Socks

Universal, affordable, and always appreciated. Go for plush neutral tones or something festive.

Mini Desk Vacuum

It looks cute and actually works! Great for cleaning up crumbs, pet hair, or glitter disasters.

Gourmet Hot Chocolate Kit

Pair cocoa mix, marshmallows, and a festive mug for a gift that’s as cozy as it is delicious.

Reusable Straw Set or Collapsible Cup

Small, sustainable, and perfect for anyone trying to live a little greener.

3. Crowd-Pleasing Food & Drink Gifts

Food is a universal love language — and edible White Elephant gifts are almost always safe bets. Bonus: they’re perfect for last-minute shoppers.

Hot Sauce Sampler Set

Bring the heat! This one’s a hit with spice lovers and adventurous eaters.

Mini Pancake Mix and Syrup Duo

Add a whisk or festive spatula to make it extra special. Perfect for Sunday brunch lovers.

Craft Cocktail Kit

All the ingredients to make one or two fancy drinks — without needing a bar cart. Ideal for festive gatherings.

Unique Coffee or Tea Blends

Go for quirky or local roasters — something no one has tried before. Pair with a mug or honey sticks.

Gourmet Popcorn Trio

Cheddar, caramel, and spicy flavors in one tin — it’ll get passed around (and eaten) before the game ends.

Charcuterie Snack Box

Think mini meats, cheeses, and nuts in a sleek box. It’s classy and snackable.

Cookie Decorating Kit

A fun, hands-on gift that can spark a mid-party activity.

Local Specialty Treats

Bring something that represents your hometown — it’s personal, thoughtful, and conversation-starting.

4. Unique Home & Lifestyle Gifts

These are the gifts that hit the sweet spot between stylish and practical — perfect for coworkers, in-laws, or anyone hard to shop for.

Aesthetic Candle or Candle Warmer

Scented candles are classic, but a candle warmer lamp is a trendy, mess-free alternative.

Mini Indoor Plant or Succulent

Plants instantly elevate any space — and they’re great for both green thumbs and beginners.

Funny Doormat

Quirky sayings like “Hope You Brought Wine” or “Probably Watching Christmas Movies” are instant hits.

Magnetic Fridge Organizer

Keeps spices or paper towels neat and accessible. Unexpectedly practical.

“Homebody” Throw Blanket

Soft, neutral, and perfect for cozy movie nights — who wouldn’t steal it?

Essential Oil Diffuser

Makes any room feel spa-like without taking up much space.

Novelty Pillow or Throw

Funny designs (“Reserved for the Dog”) or stylish textures both work here.

Retro Board Games or Card Decks

From “Uno Minimalista” to “What Do You Meme,” these are crowd-pleasers for every age.

5. Office-Friendly White Elephant Gifts

If your gift exchange is at work, these picks are perfect — appropriate yet still fun.

Mini Zen Garden or Desktop Sandbox

A cute stress-reliever for any desk. Bonus: it looks surprisingly high-end.

Funny Mouse Pad

“Out of Office” or “Loading Motivation…” — take your pick.

Cable Organizer Kit

Keeps desks clutter-free. Add a label maker or fun washi tape for flair.

Insulated Coffee Tumbler

Ideal for coffee and tea lovers alike — look for one in sleek stainless steel or festive colors.

Motivational Desk Calendar

Opt for one with cheeky daily quotes (“You’re Doing Great… Probably”).

Plant Grow Kit

Perfect for office windowsills — think herbs, succulents, or bonsai starter sets.

7. Cozy Desk Blanket

For chilly office environments (and coworkers who always complain about AC).

Reusable Lunch Containers

Eco-friendly, functional, and stylish — a gift that’s sure to be stolen.

6. Pop Culture & Trend-Inspired Gifts

Lean into what’s trending — these gifts make people laugh and feel like they’re in on the joke.

“Stanley Cup” Dupe

An affordable version of the viral tumbler. Everyone wants one — no one wants to admit it.

“Little Miss” Meme Mug

Customize it with phrases like “Little Miss Always Late” or “Little Miss Needs Coffee.”

Mini Projector

Turns any wall into a movie screen. Great for teens, families, or dorms.

Retro Bluetooth Speaker

Compact, cute, and functional — perfect for both décor lovers and music fans.

“The Office” Trivia Game

Instant hit for pop culture fans. Bonus points if you quote Michael Scott while gifting it.

Squishmallow Plush

They’re still trending and surprisingly adored by adults, too.

“Hot Girl Walk” Water Bottle

Funny, relatable, and actually useful — perfect for coworkers or friends.

TikTok-Inspired Kitchen Gadgets

Mini bag sealer, veggie chopper, or smart storage — trendy and functional.

7. DIY or Handmade White Elephant Gifts

If you love a personal touch, DIY gifts can be heartfelt and hilarious — especially when they come with a creative twist.

Hot Cocoa Mason Jar Kit

Layer cocoa, sugar, marshmallows, and candy canes — it’s festive, cheap, and Instagram-worthy.

“Hangover Recovery” Kit

Mini water bottle, Advil, eye mask, and gum. The morning-after MVP gift.

Homemade Candle or Bath Salts

Use essential oils and decorative jars for a spa-worthy presentation.

“Cozy Night In” Basket

Add fuzzy socks, snacks, cocoa mix, and a small blanket.

“Holiday Survival Kit”

Include coffee, chocolate, and maybe a cheeky note about surviving family gatherings.

Personalized Ornament

Use simple craft materials — wood slices, paint pens, or photos — to create one-of-a-kind keepsakes.

“Plant a Tree” Gift

Include seeds or a mini pot with soil and a tag that says, “Grow something amazing this year.”

Handwritten Joke or Quote Jar

Fill a jar with daily laughs or motivational quotes — great for friends or coworkers.

8. Themed White Elephant Ideas for Every Group

Sometimes the best way to stand out is to match the theme of your party. Here are ideas tailored for specific audiences:

For the Office Crowd

• Coffee warmer mug

• “Meeting That Could’ve Been an Email” notebook

• Desk plant

• Snack box subscription

For Families

• Board games or puzzles

• Funny oven mitts

• Marshmallow roasting sticks

• Hot cocoa gift sets

For Friend Groups

• Karaoke microphone

• Funny card game

• Aesthetic candle

• Mini disco ball

For Teens or College Students

• Bluetooth beanie

• LED light strips

• Dorm-friendly waffle maker

• Gift card hidden in ramen noodles

For Minimalists

• Reusable shopping bags

• Plant starter kit

• Neutral-toned home accessories

• A nice notebook and pen set

9. Budget-Friendly Finds Under $15

You don’t have to spend much to make an impression — these gifts are wallet-friendly and still pack a punch.

1. Funny socks with quirky sayings

2. Reusable water bottle

3. Mini photo clip string lights

4. Silicone kitchen gadgets

5. “Do Not Disturb” sleep mask

6. Compact travel game

7. Scented hand sanitizer set

8. Novelty mug or tumbler

Pro Tip: Wrap it in a creative way! A hilarious or mysterious wrapping job adds to the fun.

10. Luxe White Elephant Gifts (If You Want to Impress)

Sometimes the budget is a little higher — or you just want to win “Best Gift” of the night. Here are options under $50 that everyone will steal:

1. Heated blanket or throw

2. Mini projector

3. Electric wine opener set

4. Smart LED light strip

5. Bluetooth speaker

6. Charcuterie board set

7. Artisan candle collection

8. Digital photo frame

11. Pro Tips for Winning the White Elephant Game

Choosing a great gift is only half the battle — how you play matters, too.

• Go for universal appeal. Choose something that works for all ages and genders.

• Wrap it cleverly. Use oversized boxes, misleading shapes, or funny gift tags to build anticipation.

• Pick your number strategically. Going last gives you the biggest advantage — you can steal the best gift after everyone’s opened theirs.

• Observe reactions. Watch what gets laughs or excitement — those are your next “steal” targets.

• Keep it lighthearted. Remember, the goal is to have fun — not stress about who ends up with what.

The Secret to a Perfect White Elephant Gift

At its core, the White Elephant exchange isn’t really about the gift — it’s about connection. It’s the laughter when someone opens something totally unexpected, the mock outrage when a gift gets stolen, and the shared joy of being together during the holidays.

The best White Elephant gifts are the ones that make people talk — whether that’s through laughter, surprise, or sheer delight. So, pick something with personality, wrap it with flair, and get ready to make your party the most memorable one yet.

Because in the end, the greatest gift of all is a room full of people laughing together.