Latest News

Step 1: Play Kris Kringle

Kris Kringle, a beloved gift exchange tradition rooted in early Christmas practices, has become a popular way to celebrate with loved ones and colleagues during the festive season. But what exactly is Kris Kringle, and how did it originate?

Kris Kringle, synonymous with Secret Santa, is a gift exchange tradition with historical ties to early Christmas customs. 

Originally derived from the German word 'Christkindl,' meaning Christ Child, Kris Kringle is now celebrated as a special occasion to exchange gifts, rekindle bonds among family and friends, and strengthen connections among busy co-workers, often through a Kris Kringle office party. 

Organising a Kris Kringle gift exchange creates moments of joy and togetherness, with the excitement of discovering "who will be my Kris Kringle?"—always a delightful surprise!

Planning a Kris Kringle gift exchange?

Play the Kris Kringle game! Traditionally, Kris Kringle involves drawing names, usually from a hat. Alternatively, you can use this Kris Kringle/Secret Santa generator.

Classic Kris Kringle game

In this widely played version, participants write their names on pieces of paper, put them in a container, and draw a random name. 

The person you draw becomes your Kris Kringle, and you provide a wish list with gift suggestions. 

The essence of the classic Kris Kringle game lies in the element of surprise and the joy of receiving a secret gift.

Kris Kringle rules

How does Kris Kringle work? The rules are simple: It's a mystery for both the gift giver and receiver—adding to the fun!

To get started with your gift exchange:

1. Bring a group together and have each participant write their name on a piece of paper.
2. Put the names in a hat, box, or container.
3. Shake the container, and let participants pick out a name. 
4. Set a budget for how much each participant should spend.
5. Have each participant create a personalised wish list for their Kris Kringle.

The best Kris Kringle gift ideas

Uncertain about what gifts to choose for the Kris Kringle celebration? The Gift Finder at DrawNames offers fantastic Kris Kringle gift ideas. With personalised suggestions, you can quickly complete your wish list! 

If you're unsure about the perfect gift for a family member, just enter their age and gender into the Gift Finder, and DrawNames will do the rest, helping you find the ideal festive season gift! 

Step 2: Put Up Decorations

Transform your space into a festive wonderland! Whether it's a simple tinsel vibe or a full-blown Christmas tree extravaganza, decorations set the mood. 

Feeling crafty? Dive into DIY guides for handmade candles, wall hangings, and more. Need a cool recycling project? Check out this DIY Christmas craft using old toilet rolls!

Step 3: Enjoy Classic Aussie Christmas Food

Australian Christmas is a unique experience, especially when compared to the traditional winter festivities of the Northern Hemisphere. 

In the land Down Under, we celebrate this joyous season during summer, steering clear of mulled wine and embracing a menu filled with cold cuts, seafood, and the quintessential pavlova, often enjoyed with a spirited game of backyard cricket. 

To capture the essence of Aussie Christmas, check it our this compiled list of 10 iconic festive foods. From the contentious pavlova, a light meringue delight crowned with cream and fresh fruit, to the beloved prawns that practically taste like Christmas itself, discover how these culinary delights shape the festive celebrations. 

Step 4: Get Merry with Festive Drinks

Raise a glass with festive drinks! Try Christmas cocktails like pudding martinis or stick to summer classics like Aperol Spritz. 

Not a fan of alcohol? No worries! Whip up refreshing mocktails like cranberry sangria or serve the iconic eggnog—alcoholic or not. You can find pre-made eggnog at your local supermarket!

Check it out this festive cocktails to get you in the Merry Mood this Christmas.

Step 5: Sing Along to Christmas Hits

Ah, Christmas in Australia—a time when we swap mistletoe for sunscreen, sleigh bells for barbecues, and snowball fights for sandy shores. In the spirit of our sun-soaked celebrations, let's dive into the fantastic Christmas tunes gifted to us by Aussie bands over the years.

1. Zefereli – ‘Oh Christmas’

  - A heartwarming ode to togetherness, this track beautifully captures the essence of Christmas with its simple and poetic lyrics.

2. Polish Club – ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’

  - Giving Mariah Carey's classic a fresh twist, Polish Club's rendition adds a new groove to the well-loved holiday anthem.

3. AC/DC – ‘Mistress For Christmas’

  - Because an Aussie Christmas wouldn't be complete without some hard-rocking vibes, and AC/DC delivers the festive energy with this iconic track.

4. Darren Hanlon – ‘Spend Christmas Day With Me’

  - A lyrical masterpiece from Darren Hanlon, this song perfectly captures the Aussie summer Christmas vibes and the joy of spending the day together.

5. Damien Cowell’s Disco Machine – ‘I Hope You Get Laid For Christmas’

  - Adding a humorous touch, Damien Cowell's satirical track brings a light-hearted and entertaining twist to the festive season.

6. Hoodoo Gurus – ‘Little Drummer Boy (Up The Khyber)’

  - Hoodoo Gurus put their unique spin on the classic 'Little Drummer Boy,' offering a refreshing take that's a must-listen during the holidays.

7. Tim Minchin – ‘White Wine In The Sun’

  - A Christmas song for non-believers, Tim Minchin's creation celebrates the holiday's joy despite the consumerism and religious themes.

8. Paul Kelly – ‘How To Make Gravy’

  - An Aussie classic, this bittersweet tale of family and the holidays by Paul Kelly has become a beloved gem, embodying the spirit of Christmas.

9. triple j – ‘Christmas Number One’

  - In 2013, a collaboration of triple j talents, including Frenzal Rhomb's Lindsay McDougall, topped the charts with this charity single, spreading Christmas cheer and donating earnings to the Red Cross.

10. Yidcore – ‘Lonely Jew At Christmas’

  - Recognising the diverse ways people celebrate, Yidcore's humorous take on Christmas sheds light on the unique perspective of those in the Jewish faith during the festive season.