Secret Santa Questions and Printables for Better Gift Giving

Secret Santa, the classic holiday gift exchange game, is an excellent way to spread cheer among your friends, family, or office colleagues. Participants toss their names into a hat, and each person randomly selects a name, becoming the secret gift-giver. The catch? It’s all hush-hush, so mum’s the word on who you’ve drawn! 

But what happens when you’re faced with the task of choosing a thoughtful gift for that coworker you’ve never actually spoken to, or a friendly acquaintance you’ve only met in passing? That’s where a set of Secret Santa questions can come to your rescue. We’ve curated a list of questions designed to help you gain insight into the person you’re shopping for. Even if you’re not best buddies, these questions will provide valuable clues about their interests, making it easier to select a gift they’ll genuinely appreciate! 

If you’re itching to take your Secret Santa game to the next level, we’ve got something special for you. We’ve designed a blank template for those who want to get extra creative and come up with their own unique questions. Once every member of your group has filled out their Secret Santa survey, gather them up and stash them in a folder or a central spot where everyone can conveniently pick up the responses. 

But if you’re still feeling stumped about what gift to choose, don’t fret! We’ve got a diverse range of gift ideas that’ll cater to everyone on your Christmas list. 

Fun Facts

• When is your birthday?
• What is one thing you can’t live without?
• What is one thing you always need more of?
• What do you like to do on the weekends?
• What fictional place would you most like to visit?
• How do you relax after a long day at work?
• Do you collect anything?

Food & Drink

• Do you prefer coffee or tea?
• What is your favorite fast food restaurant?
• Do you prefer wine or beer?
• What is your favorite candy?
• Do you have any allergies?
• Do you prefer sweet or sour?
• What is your favorite type of food?
• What is your favorite coffee shop?

Entertainment & Pop Culture

• What is one TV show you can watch over and over again?
• What is your favorite movie?
• Who is your favorite actress/actor?
• What is your favorite band?
• What is your favorite type of music?

Fashion & Beauty

• Do you have a favorite nail polish color?
• What is your favorite brand of makeup?
• Do you have a favorite perfume/cologne?
• If you could splurge on one beauty/fashion item, what would it be?
• How would you describe your personal style?
• Where is your favorite place to shop?

Sports & Activities

• Do you play any sports?
• What is your favorite professional sport to watch?
• Who is your favorite athlete?
• What is your favorite team(s)?
• Do you enjoy any outdoor activities?

Other Favorite Things

• What is your favorite color?
• What is your favorite book?
• Do you have a favorite type of flower?
• What is your favorite vacation spot?
• What is your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?

If you want to get even more creative, we’ve also created a blank template where you can fill in your own questions. Once each person in your group has filled out their Secret Santa survey, put them in a folder or a central location where everyone can pick up their recipient’s answers! In addition to asking these questions, we also recommend setting a few rules around the game to ensure everyone receives the perfect gift. Be sure to set a price limit, schedule the gift exchange at a time everyone can attend and keep gifts appropriate for the setting. If you still need some help deciding on a gift, don’t worry! We have something for everyone on your Christmas list.