YOUR NEXT FIND IS WAITING
10 quirky gift ideas for Dirty Santa.
There is no need to go shopping for a funny gift. Look in the kitchen cupboard, the attic or that drawer you hardly ever open first.
What makes a good quirky gift?
A good find fits your group’s rules and can be a surprise. Things you can laugh about together or that someone else will use again are particularly nice. It should be clean and complete, without sharp or broken parts.
The following ideas are examples. Your group’s agreements are what matter: a theme, a size limit or exclusions for particular items can help you choose.
1. The cheesy mug
A bold slogan, an outrageous pattern or a forgotten promotional gift: a clean, intact mug is an easy find with plenty to talk about.
2. The odd holiday souvenir
A miniature Eiffel Tower, an unusual magnet or a shell decoration. The holiday story often makes the gift even more entertaining.
3. The forgotten ornament
A garden gnome for a desk, a porcelain animal or a seasonal figurine. Think about who in your group would enjoy the find most.
4. An unusual book
An old hobby guide, an unusual illustrated book or a cookbook with surprising recipes. Choose something complete and easy to read.
5. A mysterious kitchen utensil
An egg separator, an unusual cookie cutter or a gadget whose purpose has to be guessed. Clean it and add an explanation if needed.
6. An unworn accessory
A colourful tie, a bold scarf or an extravagant bag. Make sure it is clean and something the recipient could feel comfortable wearing.
7. A retro game
A complete deck of cards or a small board game that has been sitting on your shelf. Check that all the pieces are there first.
8. The desk curiosity
An unusual paperweight, a funny pen holder or an old trophy. Perfect if your group has chosen an office theme.
9. A strange framed picture
An over-the-top art print or an eccentric frame can make a wonderful quirky gift. Check the glass and frame for damage.
10. An item with a good story
Perhaps you own something that looks ordinary at first. A small card with its story turns it into a personal find.
Turn your find into a gift
Wrap the item so it is not immediately obvious what is inside. Use an old box, newspaper or a reusable gift bag. A short story on a card can explain your find. If your exchange is anonymous, write only the recipient’s name on it.
After unwrapping, show the nicest and oddest gifts in your group gallery. That way, the stories behind your finds stay with you too.