Lootjes Trekken Online: Free & Instant

Lootjes trekken is the Dutch tradition of Secret Santa, a beloved gift exchange where each participant secretly draws a name and buys a gift for that person. With Secret Santa Organizer, you can organize your lootjes trekken entirely online, for free, in under 60 seconds.

What is Lootjes Trekken?

Lootjes trekken (literally "drawing lots") is a popular Dutch and Belgian holiday tradition. A group of family members, friends, or colleagues each write their name on a slip of paper, which is then randomly drawn by another participant. The person who draws your name buys you a gift, and you buy a gift for the person whose name you drew. It keeps gift-giving fun, affordable, and fair for large groups.

How to Organize Lootjes Trekken Online

  1. Create your group: Enter the names and email addresses of all participants.
  2. Set a budget: Optionally specify a gift budget (e.g. €20) so everyone stays on the same page.
  3. Add exclusion rules: Prevent couples or family members from drawing each other's names.
  4. Draw names: Click "Draw names" and our system assigns participants randomly and fairly.
  5. Send notifications: Every participant receives a private email revealing who they have drawn, with a wishlist link.

Start your lootjes trekken now →

Why Use Secret Santa Organizer for Lootjes Trekken?

  • 100% free: no premium plan, no hidden costs
  • No app download: works instantly in any browser
  • No account needed: start in seconds, no registration
  • Wishlist feature: participants can share what they want
  • Exclusion rules: prevent specific pairings (e.g. partners)
  • Available in Dutch: full Dutch language support

Frequently Asked Questions about Lootjes Trekken

What is lootjes trekken?

Lootjes trekken is the Dutch tradition of Secret Santa — a gift exchange where each person secretly draws the name of one other participant and buys them a present. It is popular at Christmas time in the Netherlands and Belgium.

How do I organize lootjes trekken online for free?

Use Secret Santa Organizer: enter participant names and emails, set an optional budget, add exclusion rules if needed, and click Draw. Each participant receives a private email with their assignment. It is completely free and requires no account or app.

Can I set a budget for lootjes trekken?

Yes. When creating your group you can specify a gift budget (for example €15, €20, or €30). This amount is shown in the notification email to all participants.

What happens if I draw my own name?

Secret Santa Organizer automatically prevents participants from drawing their own name. You can also set exclusion rules to prevent specific pairs (such as couples or family members) from drawing each other.

Is lootjes trekken the same as Secret Santa?

Yes, lootjes trekken and Secret Santa are the same concept — a random, anonymous gift exchange. The Dutch term "lootjes trekken" literally means "drawing lots." Other names include Kris Kringle (Ireland/Australia), Wichteln (Germany), and Père Noël Secret (France).