This post shows you fun elf on the shelf ideas to make your kids giggle all christmas!
The holiday season is so magical for the younger kids and parents, but let’s just face it, it can also get pretty hectic! If you’re looking for last minute Elf on the Shelf ideas, you’ve come to the right place.
I don’t know if you reading this, is a busy parent, but the thought of remembering to move the new elf on the Shelf each night can easily slip your mind!
I mean with the chaos of holiday prepping, family dinners, and gift shopping.
But don’t worry! I’ve compiled a fresh list of easy, funny, and easy elf ideas that will keep the Christmas magic alive.
Just like how a quick skin-care routine can give you a fresh, rejuvenated glow, these simple yet creative Elf on the Shelf antics will bring a burst of excitement and Christmas cheer to your home. So much fun!
Let’s go!
Here’s 75 Last Minute Ideas To Choose From!
1. Elf Arrival in the Christmas Tree
You’ve probably seen the elf peeking out from the tree before. This quick last minute Elf on the Shelf idea is as easy as setting the delightful elf up among the branches with a little note about the excitement of being home.
2. Elf Writing a Letter to Santa
If you’re looking for a creative idea that’s easy and doesn’t take much time, have your elf write a letter to Santa and leave it on the kitchen table. It’s an adorable way to remind your kids about the magic of the season.
3. Elf in the Stocking
If you need something simple, stuff your elf into a stocking and let the young childre find him the next morning. Add a little Elf kit or a tiny gift to make it even more special!
4. Cereal Fountains Elf
Cereal fountains are one of my go-to! I think they look so cute, the older kids will approve.
5. The Naughty Elf
Sometimes, the bad elf on the shelf ideas are the best!
6. Candy Cane Sleigh Ride
Using candy canes, you can create a miniature sleigh for your elf to sit on. Add a tiny gift or note to make it extra special.
It’s one of the easiest Elf on the Shelf ideas and works for Elf arrival ideas when you’re in a rush. Also a cute way in my opinion!
7. Elf with a Tiny Christmas Tree
Set up a tiny tree for your new elf with a few ornaments and maybe some fake snow. It’s an awesome Elf on the Shelf idea that can brighten up the corner of the living room in no time.
8. Elf on the Shelf Balloon Ride
Helium balloons make for exciting Elf arrivals—have your elf “float” through the living room by tying balloons to its waist.
It’ll surely surprise even your older kids and bring a smile to their faces.
9. Elf and the Advent Calendar
If you’re looking for Elf on the Shelf ideas for Christmas Eve or December 1st, have your elf reveal the advent calendar for the day. It’s a perfect tradition to incorporate as you countdown to Christmas.
10. Elf on the Shelf Christmas Table Setup
For a last-minute Elf on the Shelf idea, set your elf at the dinner table with tiny plates, silverware, and a Christmas napkin. It’s a super easy last-minute Elf on the Shelf idea that still gets everyone in the festive spirit!
11. Elf & Toilet Paper Roll Snowman
Need something simple that doesn’t require too much? Stack a few toilet paper rolls to create a snowman and place the elf next to it holding a candy cane. It’s a funny Elf on the Shelf idea that’s also budget-friendly.
12. Elf on the Shelf in the Freezer
Is your family always looking for new and quirky clever ways to discover the elf? Put your elf in the freezer holding a sign that says, “Brr, it’s cold in here!”
Your kids will love finding him in the most unexpected place.
13. Elf’s Grand Entrance
The younger kids won’t believe their eyes when they see him coming in on his grand entrance!
14. Elf with a Sweet Treat
Another great idea. If you need something fast but fun, have your elf set up a mini bake-off with some leftover gingerbread cookies or decorate cupcakes. The best part? Your kids get to enjoy the sweets after they find him!
15. Elf in a Hammock
Take a little break with the elf—hang a mini hammock between two chairs and set the elf lounging in it with a tiny drink. It’s a clever way to show your elf taking a rest before his next mischievous adventure!
16. Elf and the Christmas Card
It’s a great way to wrap up the elf’s time with your younger kids, giving them something to look forward to next season!
17. Elf and a Favorite Movie Quote
Use your elf to deliver a funny Elf on the Shelf idea—have him hold a sign with a well-known movie quote like “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!”
It’s Elf Magic and will make the kids laugh out loud.
18. Elf in the Christmas Wreath
It’s takes minimal effort but still adds a touch of festive fun to your home.
19. Elf Under the Mistletoe
A bad elf on the shelf ideas?
It can be placed anywhere in the house.
20. Elf’s Secret Message
For Elf on the Shelf activities, have your elf leave a hidden message in the kids’ room or on the kitchen counter.
It could be a clue for the next day’s adventure or a wish for a magical Christmas morning.
21. Elf’s Tinsel Toss
Turn your elf into a Christmas decorating assistant by having him throw tinsel or garland all around. It’s a quick elf on the shelf idea that gives the room a festive feel while still keeping things light-hearted!
22. Elf’s Candy Cane Hunt
A little scavenger hunt never hurt! Hide a few candy canes around the house and let your elf lead the way. It’s a fun way to keep the kids occupied while also celebrating the season.
23. Elf with Christmas PJs
Surprise your kids by putting the elf in some tiny Christmas PJs or even better, have your elf “gift” your kids their own holiday pajamas. It’s a fun Elf arrival idea that ties into your family’s Christmas tradition.
24. Elf Under the Tree with a Present
If you’re short on time, have your elf hide under the Christmas tree with a small present for the kids. You can tie it to your family’s shelf tradition and remind the kids of the magic of giving during the Christmas season.
25. Elf in the Cookie Jar
Set your elf inside a cookie jar, or even just surrounded by some Elf props like gingerbread cookies. It’s a quick, simple elf on the shelf idea that also keeps your kids thinking about the season’s sweet treats.
26. Candy Cane Climbing Wall
Use candy canes to create a climbing wall on the side of a cabinet or wall. Secure them with removable adhesive, and place your Elf halfway up the “cliff” like an adventurer.
27. Elf Caught Wrapping Presents
Set up your Elf holding a roll of wrapping paper, mid-wrap, with some ribbon and tape nearby. Leave one oddly wrapped gift to add a humorous touch.
28. Mini Marshmallow Bath
Yum yum!!
Fill a small container or mug with mini marshmallows and position your Elf as if relaxing in a cozy “bubble bath.”
29. Elf Reading a Christmas Story
You can prop your Elf with an open miniature book, surrounded by stuffed animals as though they’re enjoying storytime.
30. Swinging Elf on a Candy Cane
I personally love this one! You can alway suspend your Elf using a candy cane as a swing tied with string or ribbon to a cupboard handle or chandelier.
31. Stuck in a Stocking
Tuck your Elf into a hanging Christmas stocking, with their head and arms peeking out, looking like they’re napping. For a last minute elf idea – this one couldn’t be simplier!
32. DIY Snowman Factory
33. Tic-Tac-Toe Battle
Draw a tic-tac-toe board on a sheet of paper and set up your Elf in the middle of a fierce game against a toy dinosaur or doll.
34. Balloon Ride Adventure
Place your Elf in a small basket tied to helium balloons, as if they’re ready to float off on an exciting holiday journey.
35. Hidden Candy Canes
Set up your Elf with a basket of candy canes and scatter them around the room for your kids to find.
36. Elf’s Gingerbread Mishap
37. Trapped in a Jar
Place your Elf inside a large glass jar labeled “Do Not Open Until Christmas,” like they’re in time-out.
38. Elf’s Peppermint Spa Day
Set up a tiny spa scene with peppermints as foot soak tablets and a mini towel draped around your Elf’s shoulders.
39. Spidey Elfy
MY PERSONAL FAVOURITE.
This one is for my Marvel OG parents reading this!!
40. Elf Ice Skating
41. Balloon Animal Circus
You can place a few animal-shaped designs nearby for added effect.
42. Cereal Box Smash
Cut a hole in an empty cereal box and place your Elf smashing out the cereal box!
43. Christmas Lights Tangled Web
Drape a string of Christmas lights around a chair or table legs, tangling your Elf in the middle of their decorating chaos.
44. Cookie Ornament Chef
Hang cookies as ornaments on your tree and set up your Elf as the creative mastermind behind the edible decorations.
45. Cotton Ball Snowstorm
Set your Elf up in cotton balls with a fan or straw, and pose them mid-snowstorm mischief.
46. The Elf Art Show
47. Stuck on the Fridge
Attach your Elf to the fridge door with magnet letters spelling out “Help!” for a laugh.
48. Elf with toys Parade
Line up toys and action figures and pose your Elf leading them in a fun holiday parade. That’s a clever last minute idea for elf on the shelf don’t you think?
49. Elf’s Christmas Movie Marathon
Harry potter might be a good recommendation for you, if you haven’t seen that is!
50. DIY Candy Sleigh
Build a sleigh with candy bars and candy canes, and place your Elf driving it like Santa’s helper.
51. Elf’s Cookie Decorating Station
Set up a small tray with icing tubes, sprinkles, and sugar cookies, and position your Elf mid-decorating with frosting-covered hands.
52. Snow Angel in Flour
Spread flour on a flat surface and place your Elf lying down, with arm and leg marks like they’re making snow angels.
53. Elf in a Mug of Marshmallows
Sit your Elf in a mug filled with marshmallows, pretending to enjoy a cozy “hot cocoa bath.”
54. Countdown Chain Maker
Give your Elf construction paper and glue sticks, creating a countdown chain for Christmas, with pieces left half-finished.
55. Elf’s Naughty Note
Write a silly or naughty note blaming the Elf for leaving a mess!
56. Ornament Thief
A bad elf on the shelf ideas for you!
57. Cup Tower Builder
Stack plastic cups into a tower and place your Elf mid-build, holding a cup on top.
58. Peeking from a Gift Bag
Hide your Elf inside a festive gift bag with tissue paper around them as if they’re sneaking a peek at presents.
59. Banana Hammock
60. Elf Finger Painting
Use non-toxic washable paints to create “handprints” on a paper canvas, with your Elf posed as the artist.
61. Last Night Snack Elf
62. Elf with a Tiny Christmas Tree
Set up a small tree with mini ornaments and lights, with your Elf pretending to decorate it.
63. Tea Party with Dolls
64. Fishing for Goldfish Crackers
Use a toy fishing pole or a makeshift one, with your Elf fishing goldfish crackers out of a bowl.
65. Elf’s Ice Cream Mishap
Put your Elf near a melted “ice cream cone” (use whipped cream or yogurt) for a funny spilled dessert scene.
66. Elf Candy Jail
Create a “jail” with candy canes, and place your Elf inside with a guilty or mischievous expression.
67. Wrapped in Gift Wrap
Wrap your Elf entirely in gift paper with just their head peeking out, like they got stuck mid-wrapping.
68. Christmas Card Model
Place your Elf in front of a holiday backdrop with small accessories, holding a “Merry Christmas” sign, as if posing for a photo shoot.
69. Lollipop Garden
70. Cotton Ball Snowball Fight
Scatter cotton balls and pose your Elf behind a barricade of cups or books, mid-snowball battle.
71. Elf Car Wash
Set up toy cars and a sponge to make it look like your Elf is washing them in a mini car wash.
72. Snow Globe Visitor
Put your Elf inside a clear jar or container decorated like a snow globe with fake snow and small holiday props.
73. Elf’s Sleigh Repair Shop
Set up a broken toy sleigh, and have your Elf “fixing” it with tiny tools and spare parts.
74. Elf Balloon Art Studio
Twist balloons into fun shapes and position your Elf as if they’re creating balloon animals for the kids.
75. Marshmallow Bed
Why These Ideas Work?
These last-minute creative ideas are basic and easy to execute and make use of items you likely already have at home. They’re designed to be funny, engaging, and leave a memorable impression for your kids.!
What are your favorite Elf on the Shelf moments? Let me know in the comments😊,
Don’t forget to follow my Pinterest board for endless holiday inspiration!
This post shows you fun elf on the shelf ideas to make your kids giggle all christmas!
