Format

Secret Santa: how to organize it online

Secret Santa is the classic gift-exchange format: a draw secretly assigns each person one recipient. You gift your person, and nobody knows who gives to whom. Online it takes a couple of minutes.

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How it works

How it works

1

How the draw works

The algorithm arranges everyone into one gifting cycle: each person gives to exactly one and receives from exactly one, and nobody draws themselves. Only the giver sees their own match — it’s never revealed to the organizer.

2

Exclusions

You can set exclusions — for example, spouses or a couple shouldn’t draw each other. The algorithm respects the constraints and still finds a fair assignment.

3

Invites and reminders

Invite people with a single shared link (drop it in a chat) or personal email invites. Before the event you can nudge those who haven’t joined yet.

4

Anonymous chat with your match

Not sure what to give? PRO includes an anonymous Q&A: you can ask your recipient about their wishes without revealing yourself.

Tip: enable auto-draw for a date — the system runs it and sends the result to participants.

Questions

FAQ

Can the draw run automatically on a date?

Yes. Turn on auto-draw and set a date — the system runs it itself and sends the result to participants.

How many people do you need?

At least two, but it’s more fun from 4–5. Parity doesn’t matter — the draw works for any number.

Will the organizer see who gives to whom?

No. Only the giver sees their own match, which keeps the surprise.

Ready to start?

Invite people by link and run it all online — free.

Create a Secret Santa →