When December rolls around, a chill creeps in to replace the notorious NOLA heat and study sessions begin to replace nights out. Glittery decor appears in the storefronts on Magazine Street and decks the lawns of St. Charles. It becomes evident that the holidays are here! What better way to lift your spirits and alleviate the stress of finals than taking a few hours to pick out secret gifts for your peers? That’s right, baby, “it’s cold outside,” and it’s time to sprinkle some holiday cheer. The infamous annual “Secret Santa Exchange” is here!
Many may be familiar with the tradition of Secret Santa. Although it is meant to be seen as lighthearted and festive, with the draw of a name from a cup or an online generator, one may realize Secret Santa creates an entirely new source of unintended anxiety: “gift-giving anxiety” (yup, it’s a thing!): price expectations, letting the recipient down, the pressure to find an original gift. Although these could be potential ways for the “Grinch” of Secret Santa to rear its ugly head, the positives of Secret Santa outweigh the negatives if done right.
A way to diminish the pressure and expectations of Secret Santa could be setting the rules for the gift exchanges, such as cost limits, each person creating personal “wish lists,” or setting the tone for the exchange as humorous and upbeat with cheap “gag gifts.” Although it may seem unnecessary to do a gift exchange if the price limit is low, a great gift could be tasty holiday chocolates, a PJ’s gift card for an exclusive holiday drink, or a bag of Bourbon Street pralines; good gifts on a student’s budget are possible.
Gag gifts such as goofy accessories, clothing items, and decorations are likely even cheaper and don’t hold the expectations of being practical and admired by the recipient. Go with the tried and true “it’s the thought that counts!” The promise of a jolly and laid-back exchange ensures that Secret Santa can be a welcoming break from the stress students face amidst the holidays.
Although it’s possible that a “gag gift” could offend a dear friend or be misunderstood, I think that, if properly executed, deciding to have a playful “gag gift” exchange allows for creativity, the resurfacing of old jokes and memories, and promises an event full of laughter during an unnerving time! If you never use the fish slippers, dog-face T-shirt, emergency underpants, toilet perfume, Bean-Boozled game, or peculiar-shaped pillow you were gifted with, who cares! It is the humorous spirit of giving that matters.
However, when going about gag gifts, everyone in the group must agree on the price limit and lightheartedness of the exchange. It would be incredibly awkward if half of the group did gag gifts while the other half bought their peers Christmas pj’s and limited edition holiday scents and skincare products.
Despite gag gifts intending to increase the mood, there is a point where the joke can cross the line, becoming unethical or hurtful. For example, mean-spirited gag gifts that bash the recipient’s appearance, sexual orientation, or religion aren’t appropriate and would undoubtedly ruin the festivities. When participating in a gag gift exchange, one should consider the recipient and their ability to laugh at themselves and the gift.
Additionally, gift exchanges are done across a wide range of groups, so it’s crucial to note the relationship dynamics and the context of the exchange before evaluating whether it’ll be an awkward gag gift or a comical one. For example, gag gifts are likely safe and amusing amongst close groups due to inside jokes and shared humor, but could be misinterpreted in a larger group, such as a dorm floor, club, or small class.
Secret Santa should raise the holiday spirits; and gag gifts can create a carefree and enjoyable atmosphere and be humorous and memorable- if done right! Secret Santa is sure to spread joyous laughs, brighten peer’s days in a demanding time, increase the spirit of giving, and provide an escape to holiday cheer and festivity.
About Ellie McCusker
Hey! I’m Ellie McCusker I’ve written for the “College Life” section since Fall 2023. I’m from San Francisco, CA and I’m a Freshman at Tulane. I’m majoring in English x Communications and minoring in Philosophy. I’ve always dreamt to be a Journalist through growing up observing my moms thrilling journalistic work. I’ve always loved to read and write and worked on my high-school newspaper for all 4 years. Coming to Tulane, I knew that getting involved in The Crescent was a must-do. After Tulane, I hope to live in NYC and continue my journalistic pursuits!
Hey! I’m Ellie McCusker I’ve written for the “College Life” section since Fall 2023. I’m from San Francisco, CA and I’m a Freshman at Tulane. I’m majoring in English x Communications and minoring in Philosophy. I’ve always dreamt to be a Journalist through growing up observing my moms thrilling journalistic work. I’ve always loved to read and write and worked on my high-school newspaper for all 4 years. Coming to Tulane, I knew that getting involved in The Crescent was a must-do. After Tulane, I hope to live in NYC and continue my journalistic pursuits!
