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Leading up to Christmas, we’re bound to see the Elf on the Shelf return to watch over children — from hanging on the Christmas tree, swinging from the chandelier or Christmas lights, or hiding behind household items. 

Although the Elf on the Shelf tradition is mainly for children, adults join the fun. However, it’s less about concealing the elf and more about the challenge of placing the Scout Elf in amusing, prank-like situations.

If you’re looking for unique hiding spots for your elf, you’re in the right place. Prepare to spread holiday cheer with our fun mix of different elf personalities and creative scenarios. 

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    #2

    This Is What Happens When My Adult Son Comes Over To House Sit Over The Weekend

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf hanging upside down above a stovetop, surrounded by Star Wars action figures in a battle scene."

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    #3

    Just A Little Terrifying

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf and a Chucky doll 'grating' a snowman toy over a cheese grater, spilling marshmallows onto the counter."

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    BusLady
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tried to warn Elf that nothing good would come out of hanging out with Chucky.

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    Where Did “Elf on Shelf” Come From? 


    Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas tradition where elf scouts are placed in homes to watch over children’s behavior. Each night in December, the elves return to the North Pole to report to Santa. By morning, they reappear in a new hiding spot.

    According to Taste of Home, Carol Aebersold and her twin daughters, Chanda Bell and Christa Pitts, started the fun Elf on the Shelf tradition. In 2005, Carol Aebersold and her two daughters created the “Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition” kit.

    Each kit included a book that explained the tradition, offered simple ideas for hiding the elf, and featured an easy-to-set-up Scout Elf to help families continue the Elf on the Shelf tradition.

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    There was an elf invasion everywhere, and merrymakers went elf-crazy, giving Elf on the Shelf clothes as a disguise, lending them creative Elf on the Shelf names, and coming up with comical Elf on the Shelf ideas.

    The end of November marks the beginning of Scout Elf’s return week. During this time, the elf arrives to carry out its duties and stays until Christmas Eve, when it returns to report its findings to Santa. 

    The trend of having an elf on the shelf became especially popular in 2007 when actress Jennifer Garner was seen carrying an Elf on the Shelf kit. 

    #5

    One Of My Mom's "Elf On The Shelf" Photos

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf smiling mischievously in front of a gingerbread house that appears to be on fire in the background."

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    Elves are “Real” in Iceland


    Elves are commonly known as fictional creatures. In Iceland, however, more than half the country believes they’re real (per National Geographic)

    In the vicinity of the country’s capital, there are walking tours that explore the possible homes of the elves. In fact, some Icelandic roads have even been rerouted around boulders believed to be the dwelling places of these mystical beings, known as álfar.

    According to Icelandic lore, elves are small creatures standing at least 36 inches. They have big pointy ears and wear old-fashioned clothing. Contrary to their commercialized look, they don’t wear pointy hats.

    For those curious about the hidden world of elves, an Elf School in Reykjavik offers a three to four-hour course on everything elf-related. Students learn practical and strange experiences about elves and hear hundreds of testimonials about elf sightings.

    #6

    We Couldn’t Find Our Elf On The Shelf Until This Morning

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with elf clothes and a small skeleton placed in fireplace ashes, humorously suggesting the elf met an unfortunate fate."

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    #7

    My Sister's Elf On A Shelf

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf trapped in a jar submerged in a fish tank, weighted down with a dumbbell, surrounded by fish."

    Mysteryck_386 Report

    #8

    Last Known Photo Of The Elf On The Shelf

     "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf tied to a wooden plank, with Beetlejuice and Pee-wee Herman dolls appearing to place it into a wood stove."

    GuacamoleFanatic Report

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    Why are Elves Associated with Christmas?


    Historian and professor Ronald Hutton writes in English Heritage that there is no direct link between elves and Christmas. The association grew over time as folk tales from different cultures merged.

    In Nordic and Scandinavian cultures, elves were considered hidden creatures known as guardians of the home, protecting the family, farm, livestock, and crops (via Christmas Central). When mistreated, they unleash their fury and can become mischievous and naughty.

    Then, in 1812, the German brothers Grimm penned the folktale “The Elves and the Shoemaker,” about how elves visited a poor shoemaker nightly to help complete his last-minute orders before Christmas. 

    The ideas put forth by the Grimms resonated with the rise of Christianity’s Saint Nicholas and Britain’s Father Christmas. As these concepts gradually merged, we eventually saw Santa Claus associated with these helpful little folk by the 20th century.

    His supposed helpers had to be extraordinary beings at his command to ensure all the gifts were ready on time. This is how elves were woven into the narrative, drawing from older mythologies to fit the role.

    Ever since, they’ve assumed the role of Santa’s little helpers. They help Santa prepare all the presents and make sure everyone is nice enough for those Christmas treats.

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    #9

    Elf Climbing Wall!

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf climbing a door using colorful gift bows as footholds, with a sign saying 'Elf Wall Climbing!'"

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    Parmeisan
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh man, that's a 5.9 (difficulty) at least. He's a better climber than I am.

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    #10

    Elf On The Shelf, You Dirty Bugger

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf sitting in a bathtub tray surrounded by several fashion dolls, creating a playful bath scene."

    Arardo Report

    What Other Tasks Do Christmas Elves Do


    In addition to assisting Santa in the workshop and acting as scouts to check on children, Christmas elves are known for making gingerbread houses. Building gingerbread houses is a beloved Christmas tradition with an elfin theme, and these tiny houses are often regarded as elfin homes. 

    Elves are often celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship, so it’s no surprise that they are frequently envisioned creating delightful treats. Picture them skillfully assembling these edible masterpieces, using gingerbread panels to form the structure. 

    They might cleverly piece together candy canes for a charming railing, toss in some marshmallows, or even incorporate a donut or pretzel for extra flair. They would decorate with colorful M&Ms, peppermint, and mini marshmallows to enhance their creations, finishing off their whimsical houses with a swirl of icing and a sprinkle of candy.

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    Families often gather during Christmas to indulge in this creative and delicious activity, sipping hot cocoa on the side. These elfin structures unite people in a shared festive endeavor and make an amusing ornament on the dining table during the holiday season. 

    #11

    Elf On The Shelf Spouse Wars Are On (Hubby Doesn’t Know It Yet)

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf wrapped in webbing and hanging upside down in a doorway, caught in a spider's web with a 'HELP!' sign nearby."

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    Kaisu Rei
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I guess the elf tried to take a shortcut and ran into Shelob

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    #12

    Jigsaw Elf

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf wearing a creepy mask, next to a toilet paper roll and a sign saying 'I want to play a game...'"

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    #13

    Draw Me Like One Of Your French Dolls

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf drawing a spooky sketch of a doll in a notebook, with a crayon in hand, creating an artist scene."

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    #14

    What My Little Cousins Think Of Their "Elf On A Shelf"

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf taped to the wall, surrounded by toy soldiers and a tank in a playful 'captured' military scene."

    ruserious65433 Report

    #15

    Cheeky Little Elf Has Been Jealous Of Frosty The Snowman And Has Decided To Melt Him!

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf holding a hairdryer next to a melted snowman scene, complete with hat, carrot nose, and buttons."

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    #17

    I Pea’d My Elf⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf positioned over spilled peas, arranged to spell 'I pea'd my elf' in a humorous bathroom pun."

    elfontheshelfadventures Report

    #18

    Freddy Came In Like A Wrecking Ball!

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf hanging from a ceiling fan chain, posed like a spy, with a Christmas ornament below as a 'mission' target."

    wiccanwoman3x3 Report

    #19

    Help The Elf Is Trapped In A Balloon

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf trapped inside a pink balloon labeled 'Help me!!' hanging by Christmas stockings on a mantel."

    jenniferjoylife Report

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    OOF
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    NO DONT OPEN IT! THAT BALLOON IS THE ONLY WAY TO CONTAIN HIS EVIL!!!

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    #22

    Worst Cookies Ever

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf holding a dog biscuit by a pet bowl, next to a sign saying 'Worst cookies ever! Do not leave these out for Santa!'"

    Richard Bronosky Report

    #23

    My Elf On The Shelf Appears To Have Choked On His Aspirations

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf 'levitating' on the wall facing a Christmas tree topped with Darth Vader and decorated with Star Wars characters."

    MasterJediMara Report

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    #24

    Hot Tub Party

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf filming fashion dolls in a bubble bath inside a sink, creating a playful spa scene."

    jaxxthenaughtyelf Report

    #26

    I'm Watching You

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf next to googly-eyed bananas and oranges, holding a sign saying 'Remember... I'm watching you!'"

    herricktheelf Report

    #27

    Snow Angel. AKA Buttermilk Corn Meal Angels

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf making a snow angel in flour, next to the words 'I miss the North Pole' written in the flour."

    pittmankid Report

    #29

    Naughty Elf On The Shelf Ate The Whole Advent Calendar

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with two elves raiding an advent calendar, with chocolate pieces scattered around and one elf holding a bottle of syrup."

    jennycookies Report

    #30

    Open Lid And Smell

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf inside a glass jar, next to a note saying, 'I farted in here. Open lid and smell,' creating a playful prank."

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    Kaisu Rei
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Should put him and the note with the Christmas cookies to make sure the kids won't eat all of them before Christmas

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    #31

    Let It Go

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf on a toilet tank, next to 'Let it go! Don't hold it back anymore!' written on the toilet in a Frozen theme."

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    Pan39
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When you’re drawing on your toilet and you realize your using a permanent marker. Blame it on the elf! He did it! The real question is who would do this type of thing

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    #32

    Looks Like Freddy's Making Copies Of Himself... And His Butt

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf sitting on a printer, producing enlarged and funny copies of its own face on the printed pages."

    wiccanwoman3x3 Report

    #33

    Prankster Elf

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf perched on a toilet paper holder, while the entire toilet is wrapped in festive holiday gift wrap."

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    #35

    Dec3 A Trap! Will Shelf And Batman Escape The Clutches Of The Evil Underworld?!

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf trapped in a blender surrounded by villain action figures, creating a humorous 'hostage' scene."

    deee_ski Report

    #37

    Alfsy’s Version Of “Girl With Balloon” Now Known As “Love Is In The Bin”

    "Elf On The Shelf idea inspired by Banksy's shredded balloon artwork, with the elf in a frame reaching for a red heart balloon as paper shreds below."

    alfieontheshelf Report

    #38

    Let There Be Peas On Earth And Let It Begin With Me...

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with elf sitting on a globe, resting on a bag of frozen peas, humorously representing 'world peace.'"

    samourelfontheshelf Report

    #39

    Free Reindeer Poop

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with elf next to a container labeled 'Free! Reindeer Poop!' filled with cocoa cereal, creating a playful scene."

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    #42

    Cupcake Where U At?

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with elf hiding in a bunch of bananas, wrapped in a banana peel sleeve, creating a playful disguise in the kitchen."

    ilovechedda Report

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    Wyndmere
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Put him and the other nanners in the freezer; we'll make banana bread later

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    #44

    Gone Fishin’

     "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf in a plastic container 'boat' fishing in the kitchen sink, surrounded by toy fish and a 'Gone Fishin’' sign."

    pittmankid Report

    #46

    Droppin A Deuce

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf sitting on the edge of a toilet, surrounded by chocolate candy pieces to mimic a prank in the toilet bowl."

    pittmankid Report

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    Parmeisan
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They should have used mints - those Christmas ones with red/green swirls in them.

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    #48

    Freddy Has Been A Very Naughty Elf Tonight

     "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf holding a marker beside a sleeping child, with 'Freddy Rocks' written on the child's forehead and a mustache drawn."

    wiccanwoman3x3 Report

    #49

    I’m Sure It’s Freshly Squeezed Too

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf sitting on a toilet surrounded by cups of yellow 'lemonade,' humorously selling it for 25 cents with a sign."

    jillyjwoww Report

    #51

    Elf on Thin Ice

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with two elves, one appearing to rescue the other from a sink 'ice pond' marked with 'Danger Thin Ice' and surrounded by fake snow."

    Tbonewiz Report

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    #52

    Crime Scene

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with one elf holding a can of silly string and another elf covered in pink silly string on the bathroom counter."

    3_T_SCROAT Report

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    #53

    “When the Elf Turns the Toilet Into a Cereal Bowl”

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf sitting above a toilet filled with colorful cereal, creating a humorous scene in the bathroom."

    junon Report

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    #54

    Elf Loves to Make Kids Brownies

    "Elf On The Shelf idea featuring an elf dangling over an open oven with toy elves arranged on a baking tray, creating a playful mischief scene."

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    #55

    Dental Treat

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf mischievously replacing Oreo cream filling with toothpaste, creating a prank setup with scattered cookies."

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    #57

    Good Tidings and Laundry

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with elves sitting on top of a dryer decorated with googly eyes and a red blanket resembling a tongue, making it look like a face."

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    #58

    Water Patrol

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf hanging above a bathtub filled with 'Croc-infested' water, featuring various Crocs shoes floating on blue water."

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    #59

    “The Milk Has Gone BAD!”

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf in the fridge holding a 'Help me! The milk has gone bad!' sign, with a milk jug decorated to look menacing."

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    #61

    Hangover Elf

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf lounging in a 'hammock' made of a face mask, holding mini bottles, mimicking a relaxed vacation scene."

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    #62

    AA Meeting

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf attending an 'AA meeting' surrounded by AA batteries, playfully referencing Alcoholics Anonymous."

    Irishtrailrunner Report

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    #63

    The Ritual

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf in a 'sacrificial ritual' setup, surrounded by candles and lying within a salt circle, with a small figure standing nearby."

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    #64

    Taped-Up Elf

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with the elf taped to a door with masking tape labeled 'Don't Play With Tape,' 'This Stuff is Sticky,' and 'Help!'"

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    #65

    Elves Sent to “Straighten You Out"

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with four elves seated behind a hair straightener, appearing to make homemade potato chips on a wooden surface."

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    #66

    Melted Snowman

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf holding a sign saying 'Tried to bring you back a snowman... but he melted,' next to a glass with drawn snowman features."

    Centrepointe Orthodontics Report

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    #67

    These Elves are Swingers

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with two elves sitting on swings made from toilet paper rolls, hanging from the ceiling in a hallway."

    @elizasplaydiary Report

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    #68

    On a Hammock

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with an elf sitting in a hammock made from a roll of toilet paper hanging on a towel bar in the bathroom."

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    #69

    Borrowing a Butt Brush

    "Elf On The Shelf idea with two elves on a bathroom counter; one holding a toothbrush, a note humorously apologizes for borrowing it."

    @rebekahgeldart Report

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    #70

    “Wrap” Music

    "Elf On The Shelf idea featuring two elves wrapped in tortillas on a tray with a note saying they love 'wrap' music, creating a humorous scene."

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