According to legend, the King of Siam would give a white elephant to courtiers who had upset them as a devious punishment. The recipient would have no choice but to thank the king for the gift, even though they couldn’t afford the upkeep of such an animal, leading them to financial ruin. While this story is mostly untrue, it has given rise to a modern holiday tradition: the White Elephant gift exchange.
A successful White Elephant gift requires striking a delicate balance. The gift should be amusing or useful enough that it won’t be immediately discarded, but it also shouldn’t end up forgotten in a junk drawer. Here are some suggestions that will not only elicit chuckles but also burden the recipient (in a lighthearted way).
The Clocky Alarm Clock on Wheels is the perfect form of low-key torture for a White Elephant gift. This alarm clock runs away from the recipient if they try to hit the snooze button, forcing them to get out of bed. Every morning, they will stumble out of bed, half-asleep and cursing the gift giver’s name.
For a gift that creates intrigue, consider the KFC Fire Starter Log. This 4.3-pound firelog wrapped in holiday paper is sure to draw attention. Inside the comically large box is a firelog that is scented like KFC fried chicken. While the smell might vary in appeal, the sheer curiosity and size of the gift make it a memorable choice.
The LDKCOK USB 2.0 Active Repeater Extension Cable addresses the common problem of a USB cord that is too short. This 75-foot USB cable will reach any device, no matter where it is located. The recipient may have a challenge finding a place to store the cable when not in use, but that is not the gift giver’s concern.
For a unique and mesmerizing gift, consider the Galaxy Projector. This device projects different light effects onto the ceiling, creating the illusion of a galaxy far, far away. With adjustable brightness and speed, the recipient can set the perfect ambiance for a Star Wars binge watch or to peacefully drift off to sleep.
The Msraynsford Useless Machine 2.0 is an excellent choice if you want to elicit a “WTF” reaction. This simple box has a switch labeled on and off. When the switch is flicked on, the box opens, and a lever flips the switch back off. Its uselessness makes it a quirky and amusing gift.
For Star Wars enthusiasts, Lightsaber Chopsticks are a must-have. These chopsticks glow in different colors with the press of a button, adding a touch of The Force to every meal. The recipient can engage in impromptu “food fights” with these extra-powerful chopsticks.
The MMX Marshmallow Crossbow combines fun and food. This crossbow can shoot marshmallows up to 60 feet, making it a sugary alternative to traditional Nerf guns. The artisanal design adds to its appeal, making it a standout gift.
The Banana Phone adds a touch of novelty to phone calls. This Bluetooth-enabled banana pairs with a smartphone, allowing the recipient to answer and make calls while using a piece of fruit. It also functions as a Bluetooth speaker, adding a fun element to daily activities.
For a gift that serves as a constant reminder, the Friendship Lamp is a unique choice. When one lamp is tapped, its paired lamp lights up, confirming that the recipient still possesses the gift. This lamp will require space and access to an outlet, ensuring that it won’t go forgotten.
The White Elephant gift exchange is a festive and entertaining tradition. By choosing a gift that strikes the right balance between amusement and usefulness, gift givers can bring joy and laughter to the holiday season. So, embrace the spirit of the white elephant and spread cheer through unconventional gifts.
