30 Fun Elf on the Shelf Return Ideas That Bring the Magic
Delight the kids and have tons of fun in the process with these ideas.
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Who’s ready for The Elf on the Shelf to return? *Raises hand.* This beloved Christmas tradition may be for the kids, but we adults have so much fun planning elfin hijinks and even dressing up our Elves in tiny little outfits. It’s an activity that infuses each day in the countdown to Christmas with creativity, laughter, and merriment. But, real talk, it also takes work. That’s why we’re here with the best Elf on the Shelf return ideas to make your life easier.
First things first: When should you bring your Elf back? Scout Elf Return Week officially runs from November 22 to December 1 in 2023. But if you get a late start, not to worry. Your Elf might have a different return schedule for all sorts a reasons, and we even include a couple of delayed return ideas on this list.
From cute “I’m back” signs and secret-coded messages, to sweet Christmas treats and Elf-themed holiday crafts that'll have your kids cracking up, there's something on our list for just about everyone. Best of all, you don't need to spend a ton of money, time, or energy to pull off these return ideas. And if your child is meeting their Elf this year, the first (and perhaps most exciting!) activity is free: Choosing a name for The Elf on the Shelf.
After your Elf's triumphant return, head on back. We have plenty more Elf on the Shelf ideas to carry you through until the big day when it's time for your Elf to leave.
Camper Elf on the Shelf Return Idea
Your Elf has been enjoying the great outdoors on his return journey, and he decided to spend just one last night under the stars.
A green construction paper sash and a marshmallow on a stick (or pretzel stick) will convey the general idea, but a bottle brush tree forest, tealight candle campfire, and scrap-fabric sleeping bag will really reinforce the theme.
Welcome Breakfast Elf on the Shelf Return Idea
Cook a festive breakfast in celebration of your Elf's long-awaited return. But wait… Who swapped the eggs with Christmas ornaments?!
Snowstorm Delay Elf on the Shelf Return Idea
Your Elf returned a bit later this year due to inclement weather. But this snowy scene complete with marshmallow snowmen is so magical, your child won't mind a bit.
Get the tutorial at The Elf on the Shelf.
Friendship Bracelet Return Idea
This idea makes a fun craft for the kids or the whole family—especially any Swifties in your crew. For your Elf's big return, spell out "I'm back!" or "Happy Return Day!" in a dish of loose beads.
To make bracelets:
- Measure and cut string for bracelets. Make at least one small for Elf's wrist; size the rest for humans.
- Choose beads for bracelets, including a variety of colorful beads and letter beads to spell out names or fun holiday words.
- String beads together to create bracelets, and tie them off.
See more ideas from Michaels.
Knitting Elf on the Shelf Return Idea
We think your Elf is trying to say she has a few yarns to tell about her adventures over the past year. That, or your yarn basket was just too tempting to pass by upon arrival.
To make the ornaments, wrap yarn around a clear plastic Christmas ornament, holding the beginning of the yarn in place with a dab of hot glue, until the ornament is completely covered. Thread bamboo cocktail picks through the yarn to mimic knitting needles. Hang as desired.
Button Elf on the Shelf Return Idea
Use vintage buttons to spell out a festive message, whether "ho-ho-ho" or "I'm back!" for return day. Fuzzy Santa beard optional.
Holiday Disco Elf on the Shelf Return Idea
What better way to celebrate Elf's return than with a holiday disco dance party? Re-create this look with a multicolor garland, a red gift box, and a scattering of small disco ornaments. Alternatively, your ever-silly Elf can swing from (or get tangled up in) a disco garland.
See more ideas from Michaels.
Thanksgiving Turkey Elf Return Idea
Does your Elf like to return on Thanksgiving? We can't imagine a cuter first appearance than Elf arriving for the family gathering dressed in his feathery finest.
Get the tutorial at The Elf on the Shelf.
The Elf on the Shelf Train Return Idea
Choo-choo! Determined to make a grand entrance this year, Scout Elf caught a ride home on North Pole's Peppermint Express. This inflatable train comes with a tunnel backdrop to complete the scene.
Too Many Sweets Delayed Return Idea
Here's another cute idea for a later return date. Your Elf ate too many sweets in Mrs. Claus' sweet shop, so he had to wait to recover a bit. Happens to the best of us.
Get the tutorial at The Elf on the Shelf.
Peppermint Candies Return Idea
Give your kids not one, but two surprises! They'll get to see their Elf again, and they'll also have something sweet to snack on with this cute return idea.
Get the tutorial at The Elf on the Shelf.
Kisses Return Idea
Here's a sweet idea for Elf's arrival during Scout Elf Return Week, which is usually the last week of November leading into December. Download and print this free note and attach to a bag of chocolate kisses.
Get the tutorial at The Inspiration Board.
Holiday Mantel Return Idea
Oh look, Elf has returned—and decorated your mantel for the holiday season too, complete with a charming bunting to commemorate the occasion.
Get the tutorial at The Elf on the Shelf.
The Elf on the Shelf Parachute Return Idea
The Elf on the Shelf Parachute Return Idea
Is it just us or is The Elf on the Shelf getting more adventurous every year? Line the path to the landing pad with gum drops to help guide your Elf to a safe landing.
Note: At the time of publication, the estimated delivery date for this product is November 28–30.
Balloon Blockade Return Idea
Your kids will be so excited to wake up on return day with this fun idea! It only takes balloons, crepe paper, and tape.
Get the tutorial at The Elf on the Shelf.
Package Return Idea
Scout Elf, reporting for duty! Have your elf make his grand return in a package addressed to the kids of the house. He carries with him a calendar marking the date of his return!
See more at A Small Snippet.
The Elf on the Shelf Airplane Return Idea
Upgrade Scout Elf's ride for his 2023 return. Order up this inflatable toy plane. Or, for a crafty (and free!) version, make a paper one. Add a note that says, "Just landed!"
Photo Book Return Idea
After your Elf has visited for a few years, you'll likely have some photos of your favorite memories. Compile them in a photo book and take a walk down memory lane when your elf returns!
Movie Cups Return Idea
We love this idea for welcoming your elves back during Scout Elf Return Week. Pair your elves with cups from your kids' favorite Christmas movies, and they'll be drinking from it throughout the holiday season.
See more at MommyGlitter.
Secret Message Elf Return Idea
Santa's the one who sent his Elf to your family—he might as well be the one to herald his arrival! Your kids will have a blast decoding this secret message from Santa himself.
Get the tutorial at Over the Big Moon.
Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers gift guides, product reviews, crafts, and TV shows like Yellowstone. She’s currently stitching up a cross-stitch pattern for the magazine’s next issue
Terri Robertson is the Senior Editor, Digital, at Country Living, where she shares her lifelong love of homes, gardens, down-home cooking, and antiques.
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