This festive activity introduces an element of chance to the traditional gift swapping format. Participants typically bring a wrapped gift, and the order in which they select gifts is determined by the outcome of a die roll. Specific numbers correspond to actions, such as selecting a new present from the pile, stealing a gift from another participant, or protecting a previously acquired gift from being stolen. The combination of strategy and luck makes for an engaging and unpredictable social gathering.
The appeal stems from its ability to inject spontaneity and excitement into a common social interaction. It levels the playing field, as even those with seemingly less desirable gifts can become highly sought after depending on the die’s results. Furthermore, this variation often encourages laughter and interaction among participants, fostering a more lively and memorable occasion. While the precise origins are difficult to pinpoint, similar gift exchange variations have been popular for many years, evolving with different rules and cultural adaptations.