How to Play Dirty Santa—The Best Christmas Game Ever (2024)

Christmas is almost here! And there's no way to get in the holiday spirit than with a little gift-giving and stealing. If you're looking to spice up your next Christmas party, consider adding a White Elephant game to the mix. Whether you're celebrating with family, friends, or coworkers, a fun game of Dirty Santa will have you dubbed as "the hostess with the mostest." Whether you're gathering with co-workers, pals, or extended family, it's always nice to have some light-hearted fun away from the snack table and a break from small talk.

How does Dirty Santa work?

Like most games, Dirty Santa has rules, although the host can add their own twist if they wish. Usually, the festive game involves exchanging new gifts that range between $15 and $25 dollars. No breaking the bank here.

Typically, a Dirty Santa gift is something silly, funny, or just downright ridiculous, but it's best to establish guidelines ahead of time. Hosts can choose a theme for the gifts such as DIY only, gag gifts, gifts inspired by a popular show, etc. Before the party, guests should wrap or bag their gift without a name or tag. The goal is to stay anonymous. The most important part of Dirty Santa is just remembering that it's all fun and games. No Christmas feuds necessary. Without further ado, let's get into the Dirty Santa rules, shall we?

What are the basic rules of Dirty Santa?

1. Have all participating guests place their anonymous, wrapped gift in a central location such as under the Christmas tree, on the dining room table, etc.
2. Have every guest draw a number from a bowl starting at #1 and ending at how many people are playing.
3. Whoever drew #1 selects a gift from the mysterious pile of gifts, opens it, and reveals what it is to everyone.
4. Whoever drew #2 can either select a gift from the pile or choose to steal #1's gift (this is where the dirty in "Dirty Santa" comes in). If #1's gift is stolen, they must choose a new gift. They cannot steal their original gift back.
5. This continues with each person having the chance to choose an unclaimed gift or steal a gift someone already has in their possession.
6. A gift can be stolen more than once, but no more than 3 times. If your gift is stolen, no immediate takesies backsies! You have to choose from the pile or steal another gift.
7. When all gifts have been unwrapped, usually the person who drew #1 is allowed one more turn to make the final steal or choose to keep what they already have. If #1 is satisfied and keeps their gift, the game ends. If they choose to steal, the game continues until someone chooses to keep their gift.
8. Optional: One variation of Dirty Santa includes a rule that each participant cannot be stolen from more than 3 times.

Now that you have the rules to one of the best Christmas games, good luck scoring the best gift at the party and may spirits stay bright!