The phrase “white elephant” means, “An article, ornament or household utensil no longer wanted by its owner.” But this unwanted item can become a fun social party or turn into a long-standing tradition during the holidays.

The Cantamus Women’s Choir of Iowa State has been having a white elephant gifting party for 10 years, following its holiday concert dress rehearsal.

“It is a time to forget about school, enjoy good food, relax,” said Kathleen Rodde, Cantamus choir director and senior lecturer in music and theater. “And for those that miss their dogs at home, I have two at my house waiting for their attention.”

The girls enjoy food, gifts and each other’s presence each year. It’s a great alternative to “Secret Santa” gift parties, because no one has to spend any money.

Alissa Brady, Cantamus Women’s secretary and junior in child, adult and family services, said typical gifts are lotions, picture frames and mittens/hats/scarves; and since the choir is all girls, the gifts don’t have be gender-neutral, which is convenient. 

The Cantamus Women’s Choir usually re-gifts things, or they give away items that have never been used.

The Logistics:

To start the white elephant party, you first have to invite everyone and tell them to bring a household item, decoration or random thing from home to gift. Tell everyone to wrap the gifts inconspicuously, so others can’t tell what it is.

“It’s all in the packaging. It’s kind of like ‘Let’s Make a Deal,’” Rodde said. “Throw in a few gag gifts that are disguised as nice gifts.”

As people arrive, let them draw numbers. When everyone has arrived and has drawn numbers, start with player one. Player one can pick any present they want to open.

Then it’s player two’s turn. Player two can either steal the gift from player one or open a new one. If player one’s gift gets stolen then they choose a new gift. You can determine how many times each gift is stolen. Typically people limit it to three times. 

The pattern goes on from there.

One year, someone gifted a Snuggie. The girls made a rule that whoever stole it had to wear it.

“The event lies in the hands of the participants. Every white elephant event is so unique just depending on the people that are participating,” Brady said.