The best white elephant gifts will get a laugh from everyone at the holiday gift exchange
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My family gets together for our annual white elephant gift exchange every year, and it’s my favorite tradition of the holiday season. As a shopping editor, I strive to find some of the best white elephant gifts each year—this is my job, after all! Sure, picking out a gift for mom or finding the perfect gift basket are rewarding in their own right. But trying to find the goofiest gift possible is a uniquely appealing challenge.
If you’re looking to level up your gifting game or simply don’t know where to start shopping, you’re in luck. I spoke to my fellow editors on the Taste of Home team and gathered up my favorite options. Together, we put together this list of the best white elephant gifts we’ve given or received ourselves. Whether you’re shopping for a work party or a Friendmas get-together, these white elephant gifts will surely draw oodles of chuckles!
For the tailgater
Stanley Adventure Big Grip Beer Stein
Like other Stanley products, this 24-ounce stein is built for quenching thirsts. Affiliate Content Director Nicole Doster says, “These are great for hanging out by the water. It’s our go-to for bringing soda or beer in the hot tub. The oversized handles have a great feel to them.”
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For the cheesiest of the bunch
Cambom Cheese Grater
It might be called a rotary cheese grater, but this handy gadget shreds vegetables, chocolate and even cookies for quick and easy ingredients and garnishes. Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski says, “I was awed at the speed! This thing really can transform an entire block of cheese or carrot into thin, cut pieces in mere seconds.”
For the home baker
Nordic Ware Brownie Buddy Baking Set
Brownies don’t have to be sliced perfectly to taste delicious, but this nifty piece of cookware makes dessert a feast for the eyes as well. This 9-inch by 9-inch three-piece set bakes, cuts and stores a batch of brownies with no muss and no fuss. Katie tested the Brownie Buddy on several batches and says she was “shocked that it worked so well. Seriously, there were no crumbs or jagged edges in sight.”
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For the Christmas ornament collector
Googly and Bright Advent Calendar
A fun and festive tree ornament always makes a great white elephant gift, so why not a dozen of the googly-eyed kind for a memorable Advent calendar? This set of wacky wooden ornaments is sure to be a hit. Shopping editor Emily Way says, “This calendar sparks so much joy. From the colorful, whimsical details to the funny little quotes and googly eyes, it’s such a cute idea for kids and adults alike.”
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For the cozy sipper
Four Sigmatic Mushroom Hot Cocoa
Mushroom coffee is having a moment because of its health benefits, and now, so is mushroom cocoa. “While the jury’s still out on its touted immune support (which would be a bonus come flu season), I did notice a sense of calm as I wound down with this cocoa,” says Emily. “Whether this was the result of me forcing a new relaxation ritual or the reishi doing its job, I’ll take it.”
For the creative one
Bob Ross Chia Pet
No one likely needs an introduction to what a Chia Pet is, but this surprisingly accurate replica of painter Bob Ross from “The Joy of Painting” is still sure to please. He even comes with his own palette! It’s a nice holiday reminder that there are no mistakes with presents, just happy accidents, as Bob would say.
For the tea drinker
Williams Sonoma Tea Infusing Wand
Turn their tea time into a mindful ritual with this elegant tea infusing wand from Williams Sonoma. This stainless steel gadget holds loose leaf tea as well as herbs and spices, plus it’s dishwasher safe.
For the salt of the earth person
Italian Salt Set
Sprinkle some Italian flavor in all of their dishes with this six-piece artisanal salt set. These small-batch salts are flavored with natural ingredients, including truffle, fennel, porcini, saffron, herbs and flowers.
For the '90s fan
Tamagotchi
Maybe you’re replacing the one they had back in the day, or maybe you’re introducing them to a returning fad. Either way, your ’90s loving friend or family member will love feeding and caring for original Tamagotchi digital pet.
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For the home barista
Rechargeable Milk Frother
Whether they like lattes, cappuccinos, hot cocoa or matcha—or want to add some protein powder to all the above—this rechargeable milk frother can do it. All it takes is the press of a button to start and stop the whisking. It’s great for home use and it slips easily into a bag for mixing up frothy beverages at work or on the road, too. Choose from nine different colors.
For the desk snacker
Portable Mini Vacuum Cleaner
It’s their desk, their rules. But if they make it a habit of eating lunch or munching on some snacks in their workspace, this mini vacuum makes cleanup much easier. The adorable ladybug design makes it double as desk decor.
For the home bartender
Heirloom Silver Cocktail Picks
It’ll be an even happier hour with these sophisticated silver picks from William Sonoma. They’re the perfect way to spear an olive, cherry or other garnish for cocktails enjoyed at home.
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For the waffles-are-for-every-meal person
Dash Mini Waffle Maker
Waffles are more than just a good breakfast. They’re great for snacking any time, and when paired with ice cream, they make for a delicious dessert. This mini waffle maker makes it easy to cook up a golden 4-inch grid any time they have a craving.
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For the movie night host
Microwave Popcorn Popper
Popcorn lovers don’t need movie night as an excuse to reach for the kernels. This microwave popper makes a big bowl of it any time they’re feeling snacky. It might just become their new favorite kitchen gadget.
EMILY WAY FOR TASTE OF HOME
For the Crabby Cook
Crab Spoon Rest
The best white elephant gifts are memorable and funny, but this crab spoon rest is also useful. It sits on the side of a pot or on the counter, and its claws securely stow stirrers, spoons and spatulas. I received mine as a white elephant gift a few years ago, but it’s become my designated sous chef for almost every meal.
For the Space-Saver
Cactus Measuring Spoons
“Every single part of the cactus spoons display is functional,” says former Editor Madi Koetting of this cute set. “I keep mine at my coffee bar station for scooping beans into my grinder and stirring in creamer. It’s fun little kitchen gadgets like cactus spoons that add joy to everyday tasks. They sit pretty on the counter, too.”
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For the Silly Goose
Porch Goose
“A porch goose is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a plastic, goose-shaped yard decoration that perches in your garden or on your porch,” says Katie of this eye-catching lawn ornament. “He looks very cute as is, but the best part is the variety of outfits you can buy around different seasons and themes. From a quirky Christmas tree to a buzzing bumblebee, there is a goose outfit for every occasion.”
For the Crafter
Woobles Crochet Kit
“The Woobles are like meal kits for crafters,” says Katie. “They offer all the materials you need—yarn, a crochet hook, stuffing, eyes, needle and thread—to create your very own knit animal friend. I sat down with my Pierre the Penguin kit and was immediately impressed by the quality of the supplies. Woobles prides itself on its ‘easy-peasy’ yarn. The texture is difficult to describe, but it has almost a jersey knit feel. It’s smooth and stretchy and it doesn’t unravel if you need to undo a few stitches.”
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KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME
For the Soup Sipper
Nessie Ladle
“You could reach for a plain ol’ utensil. Or, you could find one that sparks silly joy,” says Katie of these fun kitchen essentials. “Anyone who enters my kitchen can tell pretty quickly that I’m obsessed with OTOTO products, like this adorable Nessie ladle. It’s whimsical, yes, but also incredibly sturdy, serving up even the heartiest soups with ease.”
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For Your Batty Friend
Vino Bat Wine Opener
Every wine-lover will happily spread the wings of this bat-shaped wine opener when it’s celebration time. Cute and classy (and oh so useful), this OTOTO original also makes a fun housewarming gift.
For the Fun Guy
Fun Guy Fridge Deodorizer
Know a fun guy whose fridge has smelled better? Gift them this Fun Guy fridge deodorizer. Apart from looking absolutely adorable sitting on his fridge’s shelf, this magic mushroom also fills up with odor-crushing baking soda. It effectively eliminates old, sour smells overnight!
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For the Unbeatable Player
Lucky Cat Playing Cards
If they’re known for their lucky streak, celebrate that with this collection of lucky cat playing cards. Each suit features a different kind of lucky cat, from curious tuxedos to pretty Persians. It’s the purrrrrfect gift for the kitty-obsessed person or anyone who loves a good card game.
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For the Stationery Fanatic
Victorian Cats Sticker Book
Those who love stationery (and have a healthy sense of humor) will laugh at the high-class kitties featured in this Victorian cat sticker book. It contains over 300 stickers drawn by artist Cynthia Hart, each one featuring a historical cat dressed in stately garb. Use them on letters or in a scrapbook or stick them all over a favorite coffee tumbler.
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For the Zen Master
Meditating Axolotls
My mom owns axolotls, and I’m always in awe of how peaceful they look as they bob around in their tank. I purchased this meditating axolotl for my work desk to remind me of her. Not only is it a cute prompt to stay calm, but it makes me smile whenever I glimpse its knowing expression.
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For the Sweet One
Mon Cherry Measuring Spoons
Ooh la la! This charming cherry measuring spoon set quickly became my go-to baking accessory. I’ve even gifted them to fellow baking enthusiasts, and they’re always well-received. They just look so adorable sitting on the counter! Additionally, the leaf doubles as an egg separator, which makes it even more useful in the kitchen.
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For the Little Devil
Hell Done Meat Thermometer
Regular meat thermometers are fine, but I always end up reaching for this Hell Done thermometer instead. Apart from being remarkably accurate, this horned probe produces a chuckle anytime someone catches me checking on my roasted chicken.
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For The Pet Parent
Custom Dog T-Shirt
“This by far is the best gift I’ve ever received,” says Nicole of this pet-centric gag shirt. “You can customize the shirts with your favorite photos of your pet along with its name. The shirts are suuuper soft, too. Once I put it on, I never wanted to take it off. It makes a great gift for dog lovers!”
For the Carb Loader
Spaghetti Monster Colander
We love kitchen gear that transforms a ho-hum task into a fun experience. And the Crabby Clip-On Strainer does just that. Whether you’re prepping for pasta night or rinsing off a can of beans, he’s sure to make you smile.
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For the Person Who's a Little Too Good at Bar Trivia
Atlas Obscura Wildlife
“If you’re curious about the natural world, Atlas Obscura Wild Life is the perfect tome to get lost in on a rainy day,” says Katie. “You’ll learn about over 500 plant and animal species from all seven continents in one visually stunning package. I’ve also read Gastro Obscura and can confirm it’s an ideal gift for foodies.”
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME
For the Seasoning King or Queen
Gracula Garlic Crusher
“Any other vampire might head for the hills at the sight of garlic, but not Gracula. We tried this cute gadget, and he takes garlic, quite literally, head-on,” says writer Kayla Kenney. “Pop off his head and fill his torso with cloves. No need to peel! Then snap the head back on, press down and twist back and forth to peel and mince garlic. The whole process takes mere seconds and sparks a little joy in my otherwise hum-drum meal prep process.”
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For the Early Riser
Orange Juice Vase
Perk up their morning ritual with this orange juice vase. They can fill it with fresh-cut flowers, preserved bouquets or faux fern stems to add a little cheer. It’s a surefire way to brighten up the best meal of the day!
For the Picnic Person
Picnic Basket Planter
Surprise the frequent al fresco diner with a gift that celebrates the joy of a meal under the sky. This picnic basket planter features a drainage hole with a removable plug. It fits a variety of common houseplant species, including succulents and jade pothos.
For the Pickleball Champ
Pickles Playing Pickleball Mug
Two cukes duke it out on this clever coffee mug. This testament to everyone’s current outdoor obsession features fun artwork by artist Alison DeBenedictis. It’s also dishwasher safe for easy cleanup!
For the Aspiring Sommelier
Unlock the Wine Game
If they want the wine, they’ll have to work for it! This wine escape room game is an elegant spin on the classic escape room experience. Each wine cage comes with a score sheet and 54 escape room cards containing over 160 puzzles and riddles to solve.
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For the Wordsmith
Scrumble Magnetic Fridge Game
If they love crosswords but don’t have the time to sit down and solve them, snag them a copy of Scrumble. This twist on the classic word game sticks to the fridge. Games are played over days, weeks or months—just pop a word up whenever it’s time for a snack!
For the Breakfast Club
Sparkle Maple Syrup
Make sure their breakfast is as shining as their personality with this sparkly maple syrup. Containing edible sparkles, this tasty treat is the ideal accompaniment to waffles, pancakes or cookie bars.
For the One Who's Bananas
Nana Hats
“There are lots of produce keepers out there, but the Nana Hats banana preserver is in a class of its own when it comes to simplicity and fun,” says writer Claudia Guthrie in her review of the hats. “There are 12 designs total, ranging from a cheeseburger to a Viking.”
For the Honorary Italian
Pasta Candles
These oversized pasta candles set the mood for the pasta lover in your life. Choose from a farfalle- or rigatoni-shaped candle to complement their favorite dishes. Each boasts a 30-minute burn time, 100% soy wax and the refreshing scent of jasmine, neroli and orange blossom.
For the Fisherman
Sardine Trinket Tray
This porcelain and gold-rimmed trinket tray is all style—save for the fun sardine print! They can use it to store keys, change and other trinkets. Plus, the cute sardine is guaranteed to garner a few compliments from guests.
For the Sushi A-fish-ianado
Sushi Socks
The best white elephant gifts come in small packages, and these sushi socks are no exception. Rolled up and displayed in a to-go box reminiscent of real sushi, each pair of socks in this set fits feet sizes 5.5 to 13. They even come with their own faux soy sauce and wasabi!
For the Egg-cellent Coworker
Egg Bathroom Rug
Looking for an egg-cellent gift? This egg bathroom rug is made with microfiber and features an anti-slip TPR backing for added security. It’s also machine washable—and how many eggs do you know that can do that?
For the Breadhead
Bread Pillow
If you know someone who can’t stop subscribing to Wildgrain, they’ll get a kick out of this bread pillow. It looks just like the real thing and features a huggable, oversized body. They can cuddle up with this big baguette as they bite into their morning toast!
For the Cereal Snacker
Cereal Candle
If Froot Loops and Lucky Charms are their snack of choice, snag them this cereal-scented candle. With wax marshmallows, Xs and Os, it really does look just like the real thing. Plus, the metal spoon sticking up adds a fun finishing touch to this white elephant gift.
FAQ
What is a white elephant gift?
A white elephant gift exchange is typically a group gift exchange that encourages odd, eccentric or otherwise silly gifts. The point of the exchange is typically more of a party game rather than receiving a useful item. This means that almost anything is on the table when it comes to finding the best white elephant gifts. The funnier, the better!
What are the white elephant gift exchange rules?
White elephant gift exchange rules vary based on who you ask. However, the general gist is that each participant purchases a gift that fits with the price and theme decided on by the group. Then, when it’s time for the exchange, gifts go anonymously in a pile, and someone draws a random name. Once a name is drawn, that person can then pick one of the gifts or steal someone else’s gift. Each gift can be stolen up to three times. Partygoers each take turns opening their white elephant gift while onlookers “ooh” and “ahh” over their present.
You can spice things up a bit by making the exchange a Secret Santa-type situation, where people then have to guess who purchased their gift. There are many ways to enjoy a white elephant gift exchange, so experiment with your favorite ideas!
Why You Should Trust Us
The Taste of Home shopping team consists of experts in all things holidays, gift-giving, home and kitchen. Collectively, we’ve tested thousands of products for the home in our quest to find our readers—you!—the best items for their money. And that includes the gifts you give to friends and family. As Taste of Home‘s shopping editor, I’ve covered everything from pizza ovens to coffee machines to the best gifts for virtually every occasion (and just because).
Amanda Capritto, Taste of Home content updates editor, contributed research to this piece. Amanda has been testing products and writing shopping guides since 2018.
Barbara Bellesi Zito, a Taste of Home freelance writer who has given and received her fair share of white elephant gifts, also contributed to this piece.
