25 Secret Santa questions to find the perfect gift

You drew a name, and now you have no idea what that person likes. Have everyone answer a few of these questions, share the answers with the group, and every Santa has something to go on.

How to use these questions

Pick five to ten that suit your group and ask the organizer to send them to everyone. Share the answers once they are in, so each Santa can read their own person's replies. You can also print this as a free PDF questionnaire. For a quicker route, ask everyone to make a wishlist instead. It answers most of these in one go.

Favorites

  • What is your favorite snack or treat?
  • What is your favorite color?
  • Which shop do you love to browse?
  • What is your favorite scent, candle or drink?
  • What was the best gift you ever received?

Hobbies and interests

  • What do you do on a free weekend?
  • Is there a hobby you wish you had more time for?
  • What are you reading, watching or playing right now?
  • Do you have a collection of anything?
  • What would make your desk, kitchen or home nicer?

Things to avoid

  • Do you have any allergies or dietary needs?
  • Are there scents, foods or materials you dislike?
  • Is there a gift that would make you cringe?
  • Do you prefer practical gifts or fun ones?
  • Do you already have too much of something?

Practical details

  • What are your clothing or shoe sizes, if clothes are allowed?
  • Do you prefer gift cards, or something to unwrap?
  • Would you rather have something to use or something to display?
  • Is there something you keep meaning to buy for yourself?
  • How do you feel about handmade gifts?

Wild cards

  • If you had a free afternoon and a small budget, what would you buy?
  • What would you put on a wishlist if nobody would judge you?
  • What is something small that always makes your day better?
  • Which movie or series could you rewatch forever?
  • If you could only receive one thing this year, what would it be?

Skip the guessing

Draw names in your browser for free, then let everyone make a wishlist so each Santa knows what to buy.

Free Secret Santa generator Make a wishlist

Frequently asked questions

How do you ask Secret Santa questions without revealing who you are?
Have the organizer collect answers from everyone and share them with the group, or ask each person to fill in a short form. Another option is for everyone to make a wishlist, which answers most of these questions without any back and forth.
How many questions are enough?
Five to ten is usually plenty. Cover favorites, things they love doing, things to avoid, and any practical details such as sizes or allergies.
What should I do if my person gives short answers?
Look for a pattern. A single hobby, a favorite snack or a color they mention is enough to build a good gift around.
Is a wishlist better than a questionnaire?
For most groups, yes. A wishlist shows exactly what someone wants, with links, so their Santa can buy it. A questionnaire is a good fallback for people who do not want to make a list.