National Start a Secret Santa Day is November 25th — a day Elfster established to encourage organizing a Secret Santa exchange early. Elfster is free to draw names, send invitations, and build wishlists any time of year.
Happy National Start a Secret Santa Day!
November 25th is the official day, but you can start a Secret Santa any time on Elfster–hip, hip, hooray!
How to Start a Secret Santa
1. Invite Friends + Draw Names
Invite family & friends via email or text. We draw names and take care of the rest.
2. Make a Wishlist
Wish for gifts from your favorite brands so your Secret Santa won't have to guess.
3. Exchange Gifts
Celebrate in person or virtually and find out why Elfster is the very best!
History of Secret Santa
1741
Early Origins of Secret Santa
The earliest record of a tradition similar to Secret Santa, known as Julklapp, emerged in Sweden, involving anonymous gift-giving during Christmas.
2004
Secret Santa Goes Digital
Elfster, the world's #1 Secret Santa website and app was founded, significantly contributing to the organizing and participating in Secret Santa gift exchanges.
2024
National Start a Secret Santa Day
Elfster announces November 25th as National Start a Secret Santa Day, encouraging people globally to kick-start the cherished tradition of a Secret Santa gift exchange.
Why Elfsters ❤️ Secret Santa
It's incredibly easy and replaced hours of mental wrangling — usually done after we've all had our wine — with a complete and accurate exchange! As our family grows the politics of these things require finessing — Elfster took the guesswork out of the process!
Sprinkles the elf assisted me today and was able to correct my issue in a matter of seconds. They kept me laughing and even sent some jokes to continue my amusement. Hands down the best online customer service I have ever encountered.
I love Elfster. It is fairly easy to organize a gift exchange as well as get to know coworkers. I have used this for 3 years now and will continue!
47M+
Gift givers
50+
Countries
100%
Free forever
National Start a Secret Santa Day FAQs
What is National Start a Secret Santa Day?
National Start a Secret Santa Day is November 25th — a day Elfster established to encourage people to organize their Secret Santa exchange early instead of waiting until December.
Why start a Secret Santa exchange early?
Starting early gives participants more time to build thoughtful wishlists and shop sales, instead of scrambling to pick a gift at the last minute in December.
Is it too early to start a Secret Santa in November?
Not at all — Elfster lets you create an exchange any time of year. Starting in November just means everyone has more time to plan.