Family Secret Santa: Draw Names Online

For a family Secret Santa, enter everyone in SantaDraw, add exclusions so couples (and parents with young children) don\u2019t draw each other, then text each person their private link. It is free, needs no sign-up, and works when relatives live in different cities.

How to set it up

  1. List everyone taking part, including relatives joining remotely.
  2. Add exclusions: partners both ways, and any pairs from last year.
  3. Set a budget and the day you will open gifts.
  4. Draw in the generator and send links by text or WhatsApp.

Kids in the draw

Children can join with their own link, or a parent can hold it for them. A short wish list on their page makes shopping easy for whoever drew them.

Keep it fun

Use anonymous questions to ask about sizes or favorite colors without giving yourself away. For ideas, see Secret Santa gift ideas, and for the basics read the rules.

Frequently asked questions

How do I stop spouses drawing each other?

Add an exclusion for each couple and tick apply both ways.

Can young kids take part?

Yes. Give them their own link or let a parent open it with them; their wish list helps their Santa.

Can relatives in other cities join?

Yes. Everything works online; just allow time for shipping gifts.

Does it avoid last year’s matches?

Not automatically. Add last year’s pairs as exclusions.