When Does Elf On The Shelf Come

The countdown to Christmas is on! As we approach the holiday seasons, it's time to start our Christmas shopping list, deck the halls with Christmas decorations, and think about all of the delicious Christmas treats to make. There's so much to look forward to, and one of our favorite Christmas traditions is The Elf on The Shelf.

If it's the first time you've welcomed a Scout Elf into your home or you need a refresher on how it works, here's what you need to know about when the Elf on the Shelf comes and when the Scout Elves go back to the North Pole after Christmas. Once you've got the dates marked on your holiday calendar, you can start thinking about all of the fun Elf on the Shelf ideas that will come with the season.

The Elf on the Shelf

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When Does The Elf on the Shelf Start?

Most Scout Elves make their return during the Official Scout Elf Return Week, which is Sunday, November 24, through Sunday, December 1, in 2024. Some make their first appearance on Thanksgiving night, and others wait until the beginning of December. Keep in mind that each Elf has his own personality and might operate on his own schedule. If your little friend hasn't shown up by early December, it might be worth a note to Santa to check up on him!

Now, we've noticed some variation in the dates reported by media for day 1 of return week, but November 24–December 1 comes straight from The Elf on the Shelf's official website.

When Does The Elf on the Shelf End?

December 24 is the Elf's last day in your home before he heads on his merry way. And while your in-laws might decide to extend their stay last minute, the Elf will not. The Elf's job is to report back on the kids' behavior every day leading up to December 25, so he should hitch a ride back to the North Pole with Santa after he's done setting out Christmas presents under the tree on Christmas Eve night. You might be relieved—after all, cleaning up after the messier elves can get tiresome! But if it seems too soon, don’t be sad. He'll be back next holiday season.

How to Make Your Elf Come Back Early

Some families want to their Scout Elf to make a visit during a special occasion like a birthday party or another holiday. It is possible to request a return visit, but keep in mind it's up to Santa. If your Elf is busy at the North Pole, he might not be able to make it. But, according to The Elf on the Shelf website, there are some things you can do to increase your chances. First, send a note to Santa requesting the special visit, and explain why you want to see your Elf. Then, set out some special items like fake snow, candy, or even a new Elf outfit, and make a special sign for your Elf. Then, wait to see if he returns!

Katie BowlbyDigital Director

Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers pop culture news including country music, Yellowstone, and all things HGTV, plus gift guides and product reviews. She has been with Country Living for more than 11 years. Before that, she worked for Southern Living. The Indiana University grad also stitches up the cross-stitch pattern for every issue of the magazine.