Would it be rude of me to ask my friends to draw names for Christmas gifts this year?

I think it's a great idea. My extended family did this for years rather than have 20+ cousins, a dozen aunts and uncles, and others try to buy gifts for everyone. If times are tight, this lets everyone have a gift exchange and a bonding moment without the high cost.

Also, if you each only have to buy a single gift instead of many, you can put more thought into it and buy a slightly nicer gift while still saving money. If people are reluctant, you could also do a White Elephant gag gift exchange to prolong the gift giving experience. See the source link if you aren't familiar with it.

I have fond memories of making impossible to open wrappings or burying a gift instead a box of cooked green spaghetti so the recipient would have a surprising tactile experience before finding the gift. Typically these things involve a low price limit, such as $10, since the goal is more about getting a group laugh than providing a valuable gift.

No, not if you have a group of friends and they all know eachother. Offer to host the gift exchange at your house, maybe just desserts. It's a tight year and I bet they will all love the idea.

Don't forget to set a price.

I think that this is a great idea. Giving people the option to save money but still celebrate the holiday is always welcome, as is not buying into the blatant consumerism Christmas (unfortunately) encourages. If you still want to feel the spirit of the group, you could all get together at someone's home, or even a restaurant, for a holiday meal/party at which all of the gift exchanges will take place.

That way, you still get to see all the people you care about, and watch their delight in seeing their gift received and given. The only caveat would be to set a firm monetary limit, lest you end up with someone buying someone an iPod while someone else gets homemade oven mitts. ;).

Considering the state of the economy and that many people are struggling financially, this could work out great. Secret Santas can be a lot of fun.

No! If you can have fun AND save money.... This is a great idea! When I was in college, this was a major stress relief for me!

To only buy gifts for one or two people rather than everybody and then have fun as a group handing them out...Oh you're taking me back! Good times! DO IT!

Enjoy!

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