"Secret Santa - the office holiday tradition that brings a bit of festive cheer and mystery to the workday. It’s all fun and games until you pull out the name of that colleague you’ve never even exchanged nods with."
But don’t panic - We’ve got office Secret Santa ideas for everyone. Whether you’re gifting your boss, your work BFF, or that office mystery, here’s how to nail your office gift exchange this year.
Classic Office Secret Santa Gift Ideas
When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with classic Secret Santa gifts - think cosy socks, quirky (work-appropriate) mugs, hot chocolate bombs, desk accessories, mini desk games, or a seasonal candle.
It’s the “stay in the safe zone” approach that keeps the holiday spirit alive and avoids any awkward aftermath.
After all, who doesn’t need a coffee mug that isn’t from the kitchen stash?
Funny Office Secret Santa Ideas
Secret Santa is the ultimate excuse to bring some laughs into the office.
Got someone who’s always jotting down “genius” ideas? Gift them a cheeky notebook for their strokes of brilliance. Or a desk nameplate that gives a colleague the title they truly deserve. Then there’s the classic quote mug with something cheeky to keep their caffeine breaks spicy.
Secret Santa Ideas for Men
Shopping for the guys? Keep it practical but a little fun.
A multitool pen is ideal for the one who’s always “fixing” things (or at least thinks he is). A Lego mug adds some fun to his morning coffee – and doubles as a desk toy. Then there’s the classic water bottle for the gym-goer or a desk gadget for the one who loves anything with a bit of tech magic.
Simple, useful, and still a bit quirky - boom, nailed it.
Office Secret Santa Ideas for Women
For the ladies, lean into the cosy. Think warm socks, bath bombs, or a lovely journal. It’s about giving a little gift that feels like a warm hug (without the awkward office hug). Whether it’s a cute mug, a craft kit, or a beautiful candle, these are sure to bring on the holiday cheer.
Office Secret Santa Ideas for Your Boss
Drew the short straw and have to buy for the boss? Keep it professional with just enough personality.
A “favourite employee” mug says it all and guarantees they won’t forget you. A pack of stress balls can be a lifesaver on those rough days. And a stylish pen set with some fun quotes like “Chaos Coordinator” adds a touch of humour while still being boss-friendly.
Keep it light-hearted, and they’ll love it.
Think Outside the (Gift) Box; Make This Office Secret Santa One to Remember
Secret Santa isn’t about the price tag - it’s about the thought (and the laughs) behind the gift.
So whether you’re keeping it classic, going for humour, or sticking to a budget, there’s a gift out there just waiting to make someone’s day.
But there’s one more thing you may have missed.
If you’re a HR professional or team leader looking to give back to your team this holiday season and surprise them all with a Christmas Social event, then consider one of our team-building activities that will make exchanging presents before or after even more fun and enjoyable.
The Secret Santa that noone’s expecting but everyone will love, it’s ideal for teams that work remotely, in person, or hybrid as we have all setups available.
We’re talking scavenger hunts, festive escape rooms, and trivia challenges. We can help you plan a holiday event that your team will actually look forward to.
