Tell me if this sounds familiar: It’s December 1st, you’re feeling all festive, and you think, “This is the year my Elf on the Shelf is going to SLAY.” Fast forward a week, and now your Elf is either MIA or lazily sitting in the same spot from last night because, well, life happens, right? Been there, done that.
But don’t worry—I’ve got your back!
Whether you’re running on Christmas cheer or straight-up caffeine, I’m serving up 60 hilarious Elf on the Shelf ideas that will keep your kids giggling and your holiday spirit going strong.
These aren’t your average Elf setups, either. We’re talking laugh-out-loud moments that’ll have you thinking, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?” Trust me, whether your Elf is being a little prankster or just getting into some adorable holiday mischief, these ideas are going to make your mornings SO much easier (and a lot more fun!).
So, let’s dive in and make this year’s Elf the funniest, most talked-about house guest you’ve ever had!
1. Elf Grating Crayons for Crafty Fun
Who needs Parmesan when you’ve got crayons? Have your Elf perched on the counter, grating crayons into a bowl and them turning into m & m. This will definitely get a giggle from the kids and a What’s next? from you.
2. Birthday Party with Elf
Surprise! It’s not just any day it’s Elf’s birthday! Hang a unicorn pinata with elf blindfolded with marshmallows and kisses laying around. The kids will get a kick out of celebrating Elf’s big day, and hey, any excuse for cake, right?
3. Oreo Pranks Courtesy of Elf
What’s worse than thinking you’re about to enjoy a delicious Oreo, only to find toothpaste inside?
Elf’s mischievous side is on full display here swap out the cream filling for toothpaste and watch the kids’ reactions when they see Elf giggling (in his own sneaky way) nearby.
4. Elf Makes a Snow Angel
Let’s be honest: Elf’s idea of a snow angel is a little messier than ours! Lay him out on a dusting of flour or powdered sugar or marshmallow with his own snow angel shape marked in.
I always love this one because it’s so simple, but it looks like a little winter wonderland right in your kitchen.
5. Ornament Hide-and-Seek with Elf
Ornament scavenger hunt? Yes, please! Hide a few ornaments around the house and let Elf leave a note saying, Can you find all my hiding spots? Not only is it an easy setup, but it keeps the kids busy, which I’ll be honest—is sometimes a holiday lifesaver.
6. Elf’s Makeup Masterpiece
Oh no, looks like Elf got into your makeup bag! And, he showed his artistic skills on the kids. Well, it’s going to be interesting surprise to your kids when they wake up and realize what elf did. It’s definitely giggle worthy.
Let’s just hope he doesn’t attempt a makeover on you next!
7. Tic-Tac-Toe Showdown with Elf
Challenge accepted! Set up a Tic-Tac-Toe board with Elf as the reigning champion. Whether he’s going head-to-head with Other Elf, Barbie or a LEGO figure, the kids will love seeing Elf in the middle of a high-stakes game. Who’s going to win? Only time will tell…
8. Elsa Freezes the Elf!
Uh oh, looks like Elsa had enough of Elf’s antics. so Elsa decided to freeze Elf solid! Make a Elf Ice Cube, with a note from Elsa: Chill out, Elf! You’ve been frozen in your tracks. The kids will be all “Whaaat?!” when they find him, and it’s a perfect excuse for an impromptu Frozen marathon.
9. Elf Chilling in the Fridge
Just your Elf… chilling in the fridge! Sometimes Elf needs a break from all that holiday chaos! Place him in the fridge with a mini drink and a sign saying, Cooling off! I love this one because it’s such a funny twist, and hey, maybe it’ll keep him out of trouble (at least for a night!).
10. Elf’s Funny Painting
Art critics, beware Elf’s gone abstract! Place him in front of other elf. I love adding a note that says, Art is in the eye of the beholder, right? It’s quirky, creative, and might inspire a little family painting session.
11. Elf Robs the Piggy Bank
Looks like Elf’s getting a little too comfortable with your change jar! Position him next to the piggy bank with coins spilled around and a mini sack of loot.
12. Elf’s Brave Challenge: Are You Ready?
Who’s up for an Elf-level dare? So, elf is challenging you to drink to see if it’s apple juice or elf pee?. But, the question is are you willing to find out and take that risk?
13. Butt Brush Prank by Elf
Oh my, Elf’s taken things to a whole new level with this one! Stick a tiny toothbrush to his bum and position him like he’s using it to clean himself up.
Leave a cheeky note saying, Just keeping things fresh down here or just borrowed your butt brush. It’s ridiculous, but exactly what makes Elf so fun!
14. Potato Chip-Making Elf
Who needs store-bought when Elf’s making his own chips? You can decorate potato in fear that they might be the next getting made into chips by elf.
15. Elf Says: Your Poop Stinks!
Let’s get real—bathroom humor never fails to get a giggle! Have Elf perched on the toilet in the toilet paper saying, jingle bells, your poop smells! The kids will die laughing, and you’ll be patting yourself on the back for letting Elf go where no elf has gone before.
16. Pranking Mom: Elf Style
Uh-oh! Looks like Elf’s got a prank up his sleeve and Mom’s the target! The elf is asking the kids to hide these frogs everywhere around the house or mom gets annoyed?
I think elf is seriously onto something with mom, first mommy’s makeup and now, this?
17. Spin the Wheel: Elf’s Turn
Let Elf be the game master! Create a tiny spin the wheel with fun challenges, like Sing a Christmas carol! or Eat candy for breakfast!Position Elf like he’s ready to give it a whirl, and let the kids spin to see what the day’s activity will be.
It’s Elf-approved holiday fun that could easily turn into a new family tradition.
18. I Love You S’more, Says Elf
S’mores + Elf = heart eyes. Set him up with a mini fire (battery-operated candle), toasting marshmallows and ready to make a s’more. A sign nearby says, I love you s’more every day!It’s the sweetest thing, literally.
Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to make real s’mores later on!
19. Pooping Elf Humor
Bathroom humor strikes again! This time, Elf has pooped hershey’s kisses on toilet paper. It’s silly and gross, but let’s be honest, the kids are going to think it’s hilarious.
20. Fishing Fail: Elf Edition
Looks like Elf’s fishing trip didn’t go as planned. And, he is under shark attack? Oh my dear elf.
21. Making Snowman Desserts with Elf
Elf’s whipping up something sweet! He made the kids this cute snowman donuts. Trust me, Elf’s going full Martha Stewart with this one. And, your kids are going to be so happy waking up to this sweet trear for breakfast.
22. Clownin’ Around: Elf’s New Job
Send in the clown—Elf, that is! So, looks like elf is definitely messing up with family photos by adding that tiny red nose to the whole family and himself. Well, making you guys indeed a family of clowns😂!
23. Wanna Build a Snowman? Elf Does!
If your Elf’s channeling their inner Olaf, this is a must! Set him up with mini marshmallows, buttons, and toothpicks, building a snowman on the counter. Leave a note that says, Wanna help me build a snowman?
The kids will be thrilled to pitch in and create their own snowy friends, right in the kitchen!
24. Wrinkled Chips
Such a hard working elf this is. Elf is literally fixing those wrinkled chips for you so that you don’t have to consume that, so considerate, Right?
25. Domino’s Pizza
Elf ordered you a dominoes pizza, yayyy! But wait, why is it just pizza base and dominos? Oh gosh again we are at elf’s naughty side.
26. Elf Relaxing in the Bathtub
After a long night of pranks, Elf deserves some R&R! Place him in floaty complete with a tiny towel and a mini rubber duck. It’s a spa day, Elf style!
27. Elf’s Grocery List Mayhem
Elf’s got you errands to run, but his grocery list is totally ridiculous. Leave him next to a list that includes items like Reindeer food, Snowman noses, and 500 candy canes. The kids will get a kick out of seeing what silly items Elf thinks are must-haves for Christmas.
28. Elf is Selling Christmas Trees Now
Set up a mini Christmas tree lot with Elf acting as the proud seller. And, he is selling you Christmas tree cookies wow!
29. Elfs In Spacesuit
Blast off! Dress your Elf in a homemade spacesuit (foil works wonders) and have him floating in space aka, hanging from a lamp or ceiling fan. With a moon poster that says we love you to the moon and back. Aww, that’s so sweet of elf.
30. Elf Pox
Oh no, Elf’s caught a case of “Elf Pox!” Place tiny red dots all over him (stickers or marker work), and quarantine him in a tissue box bed with that note. The kids will definitely be scared, maybe?
31. Elf Playing Golf? Why Not!
Fore! Elf’s picked up a new hobby, Golf! Set him up with a tiny golf club with candy cane with marshmallows aiming for a toy cup or goal. The kids might even want to join in and try a few swings themselves.
32. Scary Barber Elf Prank
This is next-level mischief. Place Elf next to a doll or action figure with some of its hair “cut off,” holding tiny scissors and looking slightly panicked. The kids will think it’s hilarious (as long as their own hair is safe or not, because they could be elf’s next victim).
33. Elf Fishing Adventure
Looks like Elf’s having a fishing day! Set him up with a small fishing rod catching goldfish crackers. It’s cute, funny, and an easy setup that’ll definitely reel in some laughs. 
34. Elf Swinging Into Christmas
Elf’s going full Tarzan! Tie a string or ribbon from a shelf or light fixture and let Elf swing into the holidays. A sign nearby says, Swinging into Christmas fun!
35. Building with Lego Elf
Looks like Elf’s been working overtime as a builder! Set him up with a pile of LEGOs, mid-construction, and maybe even have him build a tiny house or car with a countdown.
36. Duck Feeding Elf Adventures
Elf’s gone to the park well, sort of! Set him up with some toy ducks or rubber duckies, tossing bits of cereal or crumbs their way. It’s a cute way to show Elf being helpful, even if it’s just feeding his new feathered friends.
37. Elf and Friends: Squad Goals
38. Elf Brings a Snowman Surprise
Surprise! Elf’s brought along a mini snowman friend but it’s metled. Seriously, your kids are going to have a good laugh seeing this.
39. Elf on a Ball Roll Mission
40. Underwear Stuck
Oh no! Elf’s gotten himself tangled up in someone’s underwear. Place him hanging from a pair of undies, stuck mid-escape, with a note that says, Oops! Got stuck in here! It’s cheeky, a little embarrassing, and guaranteed to make the kids giggle.
41. Elf Eyes Are Watching You
Looks like Elf’s keeping an eye on everyone, literally! Stick googly eyes on various objects around the house, like the fridge, books, or even toys, and position Elf nearby with a sign that says, Elf’s eyes are everywhere! It’s a clever and playful reminder that Elf’s always watching… with a bit of fun!
42. Maple Syrup Sipping Elf Style
Elf’s got a serious sweet tooth! Set him up sipping from a bottle of maple syrup with a straw. It’s silly, sugary, and so on-brand for a North Pole visitor. Just make sure no one catches him in the act!
43. Dashing Through the Snow with Elf
Elf’s dashing through the snow (aka, your kitchen counter). Create a little snowy scene with flour, powdered sugar or cotton balls, and set Elf up in a mini sled or on a toy reindeer.
A note says, “Dashing through the snow” It’s a magical scene that’ll have everyone singing along to the classic holiday tune.
44. Run Run Rudolf, Elf’s Gotcha!
Elf’s finally caught up with Rudolf! Set him up riding a small cars with rudolf ears, looking like he’s on a Christmas chase.
45. Elf’s Friendship Bracelet Craft
Elf’s getting crafty again, this time, with friendship bracelets! Set him up with colorful froot loops, making a tiny bracelet for the kids. Leave a note saying, For my favorite humans!. It’s a sweet, personal touch that adds a little extra love to your Elf’s mischief.
46. Cotton Candy from the North Pole: Elf’s Treat
What’s that? Elf’s brought a sweet treat from the North Pole! Set up a tiny cotton candy setup using pink cotton balls or fluffy yarn, with Elf acting as the cotton candy chef. Leave a sign that says, Fresh from the North Pole! It’s a sugary twist that’ll leave the kids wondering if they’ll get a real treat next.
47. Lego Master Elf
Who knew Elf was so good at building? And elf is building himself. Seeing this maybe your kids will be inspired to build legos of themselves.
48. Shh… Elf’s Secret Message
Elf’s got a secret! Write a message in invisible ink (or simple code) and place Elf nearby, holding a mini magnifying glass or wearing a detective hat. The kids will love the challenge and feel like real detectives!
49. Elf Joins Paw Patrol Fun
Paw Patrol + Elf on the Shelf = holiday magic! Place Elf with some of the kids’ Paw Patrol toys, ready to join in the latest rescue mission. The kids will love seeing Elf as part of the action, and maybe even want to play along.
50. Mermaid Elf in the House
Is it a Christmas miracle, or has Elf gone full mermaid? Dress him up with a paper or fabric tail, and set him up near toy sea creatures or shells. Leave a sign that says, Mermaid Elf in the house!
It’s a magical, sea-inspired twist that’ll make everyone think Elf’s taken a break from the North Pole!
51. Elf Jenga Challenge
Game night, but Elf-style! Set up a mini Jenga tower with Elf about to pull out a piece, looking like he’s mid-game. And, the jenga is made out of kitkats i mean who doesn’t love that.
52. Spiderman Elf in Action
Looks like spiderman is not liking elf’s naughtiness?
53. Can You Help Elf Find These?
Elf’s lost something important, and it’s up to the kids to find it! Set up a scavenger hunt where Elf has lost mini candy canes or ornaments, and leave a note saying, Can you help me find these? It’s an interactive, festive adventure that’ll keep the kiddos busy and entertained.
54. Booby Trap Trouble for Elf
55. Elf Yourself: Be the Star
Let Elf work his holiday magic on the whole family! Stick Elf hats and outfits on photos of each family member, and place Elf nearby holding a glue stick or marker. Or, you can draw elf on bathroom.
56. Sledding Elf’s Winter Fun
Elf’s all about that winter action! Create a little sledding hill using pillows, books, or even the banister, and place Elf on a tiny sled (a toy or piece of cardboard will do).
57. Hanging Around Until Santa Shows Up
Elf’s just hanging out, literally. Attach Elf to a string or ribbon and suspend him from a shelf, light fixture, or doorway. Leave a note that says, Just hanging out, waiting for Santa!
58. Sweet Notes from Elf
Elf’s spreading kindness today! Set him up with a stack of sticky notes or small cards, each with a sweet or funny message for family members. Things like, You’re snow amazing! or You jingle all the way!
A heartwarming way for Elf to share positive vibes, and it’ll give everyone a little extra holiday cheer.
59. Bubble Bath Hiding Elf
Elf’s gone full spa-mode! Place him in a bathtub filled with white balloons as bubbles, complete with a tiny towel and rubber duck.
I love how it’s cute, cozy, and exactly the kind of relaxation Elf deserves after all that mischief.
60. Drunk UNO? Elf’s Game Night
Looks like Elf had a wild game night with barbies, UNO style! It’s definitely a adult elf on shelf idea.
