Gift Exchange Ideas for Large Families
Finding gift exchange ideas for large families can be challenging. With so many personalities, preferences, and age groups to consider, it’s important to choose an approach that feels fun and inclusive without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re looking for creative ways to simplify the process or hoping to spark joy with thoughtful surprises, a well-planned gift exchange can bring everyone closer together and create lasting memories. From budget-friendly ideas to unique twists on classic traditions, here’s how to make your family’s holiday gift exchange truly special this year.
GIFT EXCHANGE IDEAS FOR LARGE FAMILIES
1. Secret Santa with a Twist
- Details: Everyone draws a name and buys a gift for that person but with a fun theme (e.g., “handmade gifts,” “kitchen gadgets,” or “books”).
- Budget-Friendly: Set a spending limit to keep things fair and affordable.
- Twist: Add a guessing game where everyone tries to figure out who their Santa is.
2. White Elephant Exchange
- Details: Each person brings a wrapped gift, and participants take turns either unwrapping a new gift or “stealing” an already opened one.
- Fun Twist: Assign a quirky theme like “as seen on TV” or “retro finds.”
3. Family Gift Baskets
- Details: Instead of individual gifts, create themed baskets for each family unit (e.g., movie night, spa day, or game night).
- Collaboration Option: Families can draw themes and contribute items to their own basket.
4. Gift Roulette
- Details: Wrap all gifts and place them in a pile. Each person rolls dice to determine the order of selection. Add a rule like “swap with your neighbor” for extra fun.
- Variation: Make it a “mystery box” exchange where gifts are wrapped in misleading shapes or sizes.
5. Experience Swap
- Details: Focus on giving experiences instead of physical gifts. Examples include event tickets, a day pass to a museum or a family dinner voucher.
- Customizable: Tailor experiences to the recipient’s interests.
6. Crafty Christmas
- Details: Each participant creates a homemade gift. Options include baked goods, art, or DIY crafts.
- Skill Levels: Encourage everyone, regardless of crafting ability, to join in.
7. “Gift Auction”
- Details: Each family member brings a wrapped gift. Use fake money or points to “bid” on items, making it a lively and strategic event.
- Excitement: People compete for their favorite gifts.
8. “Pick-a-Person” Traditions
- Details: Instead of exchanging gifts for everyone, focus on one person and create a personalized gift.
- Ideas: A memory scrapbook, a playlist of favorite songs, or a video message compilation.
9. Holiday Scavenger Hunt
- Details: Hide small gifts around the house and give clues for family members to find them.
- Interactive: Make it a team activity for added fun.
10. Charitable Giving
- Details: Each person or family contributes to a charity of their choice in honor of another family member.
- Heartwarming: Celebrate the holiday spirit by giving back together.
LOW COST GIFT IDEAS
Toddlers
- Personalized Storybook
- Create a story with their name or family references. Use online templates or make a DIY version.
- Sensory Play Kit
- Include items like homemade playdough, textured fabrics, or colorful pom-poms.
- Wooden Puzzles or Blocks
- Simple, educational, and durable.
- Animal Figurines
- Small plastic animals for imaginative play.
- DIY Busy Bag
- Fill a small bag with fun, quiet-time activities like stickers, coloring pages, and felt shapes.
Elementary Age
- Craft Kits
- Bead bracelets, foam art, or paint-your-own figurines.
- Personalized Notebooks or Journals
- Pair with stickers, fun pens, or markers.
- Puzzle Games
- Jigsaw puzzles, brainteasers, or mini Rubik’s cubes.
- Mini LEGO Kits
- Small sets or single LEGO figurines.
Teens
- Customized Phone Case
- Decorate a plain case with paints, stickers, or photos.
- Snack Attack Kit
- Assemble their favorite candies, popcorn, or drink packets in a mason jar or box.
- DIY Friendship Bracelet Kit
- Include embroidery floss, beads, and instructions for making bracelets.
- Tech Organizers
- Inexpensive cord organizers or phone stands.
- Mini Journaling Set
- A pocket notebook, colored pens, and stickers for doodling or note-taking.
Adults
- Homemade Treats
- Bake cookies, make hot cocoa mixes in jars, or create DIY spice blends.
- Photo Magnets
- Print family photos and turn them into magnets with adhesive sheets.
- Personalized Mug
- Decorate a plain mug with porcelain pens or paint for a custom look.
- Recipe Jar
- Layer dry ingredients for cookies, soups, or pancakes with a recipe card attached.
- Cozy Gift Bundle
- Pair inexpensive socks, tea, and a handwritten note for a warm and thoughtful gift.
Grandparents
- Memory Book
- Fill a notebook with family memories, quotes, and photos.
- Homemade Handprint Art
- Toddlers can make painted handprint crafts for keepsakes.
- Tea Sampler
- Package several tea bags with a small teacup or cozy mug.
- Puzzle or Word Search Book
- Affordable and engaging for quiet afternoons.
- Family Calendar
- Use online services to print a photo calendar featuring loved ones.
FOR MORE FAMILY FUN - CLICK OUR HOLIDAY GUIDE BELOW!
