100 Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

The Elf on the Shelf has become one of the most beloved holiday traditions.

Turning ordinary December mornings into moments of magic, surprise, and laughter.

These 100+ Elf on the Shelf ideas are creative, easy to recreate, and guaranteed to delight kids (and adults!) of all ages.

Grab your elf, some props from around the house, and get ready to make the countdown to Christmas unforgettable.

1. Marshmallow Bubble Bath

A toy elf sits in a bowl filled with mini marshmallows, resembling a bath, with a rolled blue towel and two rubber duckies nearby.

Place your elf in a bowl or cup filled with mini marshmallows to look like a relaxing bubble bath.

Add a washcloth as a towel and maybe a rubber duckie for extra charm.

2. Zipline Adventure

A toy elf in a red outfit sits on a string, holding two candy canes, with a neutral-colored wall in the background.

Tie a piece of string from one side of the room to the other and clip the elf on with a candy cane “zipline.”

It looks like your elf is zooming across the room!

3. Elf Snow Angel

Elf on the Shelf doll lying on a surface making a snow angel shape in flour, with arms and legs outstretched.

Lay your elf on the counter or a baking sheet and surround them with flour, sugar, or sprinkles.

Use their arms and legs to create a tiny snow angel pattern.

4. Candy Cane Jail

An Elf on the Shelf doll is sitting inside a cage made of red and white candy canes, with colorful candies scattered nearby.

Trap the elf behind candy canes set up like jail bars.

Use a sign that says “I’ve been naughty!” or have toy figures act as the “police”.

5. Toilet Paper Roll Sled Ride

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a makeshift sleigh made from a toilet paper roll, a sponge, and cardboard runners, positioned in front of a staircase.

Unroll some toilet paper down the stairs or hallway and sit your elf in a roll like it’s a sled sliding down the “hill.”

6. Elf Selfie Station

A toy elf doll sits on a camera next to a smartphone displaying its selfie, with various colorful props and glasses on the table.

Set up your elf next to a phone or mini camera with a “selfie” printout or mirror.

Scatter mini props like sunglasses or hats around them.

7. Cereal Box Hideout

A toy elf doll sits inside a colorful cereal box, with its arms and head poking through the front, against a blurred festive background.

Cut a window in a cereal box and position your elf peeking out.

Kids will love spotting them while pouring breakfast.

A toy elf sits at a table holding a chocolate chip cookie and a sign that reads "I couldn't resist!" with more cookies scattered around.

Place your elf with crumbs around them and a half-eaten cookie in hand.

Add a sign: “I couldn’t resist!”

9. Stuck in the Fridge

A toy elf wearing a striped scarf sits inside a refrigerator in front of milk and other bottles.

Place the elf in the fridge among the milk and juice.

Have them bundled up in a scarf or mittens like they’re freezing.

10. Elf Makes Snowflakes

A red elf doll sits on a table with scissors, paper snowflakes, and gifts under a Christmas tree in the background.

Set up paper scraps and scissors.

Place a few mini paper snowflakes beside your elf to make it look like they’ve been crafting.

11. Sack Race with Toy Friends

An elf doll and three teddy bears are each placed in separate brown paper bags on a wooden surface, with holiday decor in the background.

Line up the elf with a few small stuffed animals or dolls in brown paper lunch sacks or socks.

Prop them up as if they’re mid-race across the kitchen table or countertop.

12. Elf in a Tissue Box Bed

A Christmas elf doll sits inside a festive tissue box with a tissue draped over its arm, in front of a decorated Christmas tree.

Turn a tissue box into a cozy elf bed.

Lay your elf on top of tissues, tuck in a scrap of fabric as a blanket, and maybe add a mini bedtime book for extra cuteness!

13. Fishing in the Sink

A toy elf sits on a sink, fishing for goldfish crackers and marshmallows in a small metal bucket filled with water.

Place your elf next to the bathroom or kitchen sink with a candy cane “fishing pole” and goldfish crackers or marshmallows floating in the water.

Don’t forget a tiny bucket for the “catch”!

14. TP the Tree

A Christmas tree decorated with toilet paper sits behind an Elf on the Shelf doll holding a sign that reads, "Decorating... my way?" A roll of toilet paper is on the floor.

Set your elf holding a mini roll of toilet paper at the base of your Christmas tree, with strands draped over the branches.

Add a mischievous grin and a sign that says, “Decorating… my way!”

15. Story Time Circle

A toy elf in red sits on a wooden floor reading a book to a circle of stuffed bears and holiday figurines, with a Christmas tree in the background.

Set your elf in the center of a circle of stuffed animals or figurines, holding a mini book or paper with “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” on it.

It looks like Elf is reading a bedtime story!

16. Candy Cane Hunt

Elf doll holding a pink sign that says "Find all the Candy canes!" with three candy canes placed on a wooden surface in front of it.

Pose your elf with a note that says “Find all the candy canes!” and hide a few around the room.

A fun game for the kids to play in the morning!

17. Elf Inside a Balloon

Elf on the Shelf doll holds a sign reading "HELP! I got STUCK!" while standing in front of a clear plastic ornament, surrounded by holiday decorations and wrapped presents.

Place your elf inside a clear balloon (cut the knot and stretch it carefully!) and leave a note that says “Help! I got stuck!”

Great on a table or next to other Christmas decorations.

18. Baking Gone Wrong

A toy elf lies on a floured surface surrounded by cookie cutters, a rolling pin, chocolate chips, and colored sprinkles. A handprint is visible in the flour.

Scatter flour on the counter and lay your elf flat with cookie cutters, a rolling pin, and maybe a handprint in the flour.

Add chocolate chips or sprinkles for extra messiness.

19. Sledding on the Stairs

A toy elf in red and white sits on a small green sled at the edge of carpeted stairs decorated with a pine garland.

Use a cardboard box, baking tray, or lid as a “sled” and set your elf going down the staircase.

If your stairs aren’t accessible, a table or couch cushion can work just as well!

20. Wrapped in Christmas Lights

A toy elf doll is sitting on the floor next to a Christmas tree, wrapped in string lights, with wrapped presents nearby.

Tangle your elf up in a strand of mini fairy lights (battery-operated ones work great).

Set them next to the tree as if they were trying to help decorate… but got in over their head!

21. Bubblegum Blower

A red Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a table blowing a pink bubble gum bubble, with another pink bubble in front of it.

Sit your elf with a piece of pink bubblegum stuck to its face and a pink balloon taped to its mouth to look like it just blew a giant bubble.

It’s simple, silly, and guaranteed to make your kids giggle.

22. Drive-In Movie Night

A toy elf sits in a blue toy car filled with popcorn, watching a movie on a tablet. Popcorn is scattered on the table, and a Christmas tree is in the background.

Turn a tissue box into a mini car and sit your elf inside with a tablet or phone propped up in front playing a holiday movie.

Add popcorn or mini snacks for the full experience!

23. Elf Spa Day

A toy elf with cucumbers on its face sits on a mini bed with lotion bottles, a brush, and cucumber slices nearby, depicting a spa scene.

Lay your elf on a cotton ball “spa bed”

Place cucumbers (green construction paper circles) on their eyes, and surround with lotion bottles and cotton swabs as spa supplies.

Total elf relaxation mode!

24. Sticky Note Mayhem

A toy elf doll holding a pen stands in front of a wall covered with colorful sticky notes containing handwritten messages.

Cover a bathroom mirror or a kitchen cabinet with colorful sticky notes, each with silly elf messages or doodles.

Have your elf holding the pen like they were the one leaving all the notes!

A toy elf in a red outfit holds a sign that says "Just one bite, I SWEAR?" while sitting in front of a spilled jar of cookies on a marble surface.

Place your elf halfway inside the cookie jar with crumbs and cookie bits all around.

Add a note: “Just one bite, I swear!”

26. Snowball Fight Scene

A toy elf in red sits by a knocked-over mug, making snowballs from fake snow, with toy figures and a paper igloo fort in the background.

Arrange your elf in a playful snowball fight setup using cotton balls and mini figurines.

Add a paper fort or upturned mug as shelter, and place the elf mid-throw with a cotton ball in hand.

27. Game Night Takeover

An Elf on the Shelf doll stands behind a Connect Four game, surrounded by cards and two toys on a table, with a decorated Christmas tree in the background.

Set your elf up with a board game like Connect Four, UNO, or a mini deck of cards.

Surround by a few small toys as fellow players.

Scatter the cards or pieces like they’ve been playing all night.

28. Elf Draws Mustaches

A red elf doll sits beside a framed photo of three children, with white marker-drawn mustaches on two faces. A white marker lies in front of the frame.

Place your elf near a framed family photo with dry erase marker mustaches drawn on the glass.

Give them the marker and a mischievous grin, it’s a playful prank the whole family will laugh at.

29. Snowy Window Artist

A toy elf sits on soda cans by a window, holding a white marker. A snowy tree scene is drawn on the glass.

Use a washable white marker or fake snow spray on a window or mirror to let your elf “draw” a winter scene or write “Merry Christmas!”.

Position them with the can or marker for a full storytelling moment.

30. Elf’s Hot Cocoa Bar

An Elf on the Shelf doll is surrounded by mugs filled with marshmallows and candy canes, with packets of hot cocoa mix and small jars in the background.

Create a mini hot cocoa station with tiny cups, mini marshmallows, candy canes, and cocoa packets.

Set your elf in the middle, like they’re serving up warm treats for everyone in the house.

31. Elf Builds a Mini Snowman

A toy elf from an easy Elf on the Shelf setup sits next to a snowman made of stacked marshmallows, chocolate pieces, and candy, with graham crackers and candy corn scattered around.

Use large marshmallows or powdered donut holes to stack and create a mini snowman.

Add pretzel sticks for arms, chocolate chip buttons, and a candy corn nose.

Pose your elf nearby with a “carrot nose in hand” or holding a toothpick like they’re building the finishing touches.

32. Elf Camps Out

An elf doll sits inside a small tent with a pillow, next to a makeshift campfire made of toy logs, fake flames, and marshmallows, on a countertop beside a small Christmas tree.

Pitch a tent using napkins, paper straws, or popsicle sticks, and lay your elf on a marshmallow pillow with a cotton ball sleeping bag.

Scatter mini logs (Tootsie Rolls) for a faux campfire and place a battery-operated tea light for a cozy “flame.”

33. Elf at the Nail Salon

A Barbie doll and an Elf on the Shelf figure sit in front of a sign reading "ELF & CO. NAIL SPA" with two nail polish bottles nearby.

Set your elf up with nail polish bottles, cotton balls, and a Barbie or small doll with one hand “painted”.

Bonus points if you add a sign that says “Elf & Co. Nail Spa, Appointments Welcome!”.

34. Reindeer Rodeo

A plush Elf on the Shelf doll in red clothes sits on a stuffed reindeer, with a decorated Christmas tree in the blurred background.

Sit your elf on a stuffed reindeer or toy horse like they’re riding it in a rodeo.

Make a rope lasso out of string and lean them back cowboy-style. Yeehaw meets the North Pole!

35. Peek-a-Boo Present

A toy elf in a red outfit sits in an open gift box, holding a tag that reads "To You. From: Santa’s Spy!" in front of a Christmas tree.

Wrap a small box and place your elf inside with the lid slightly lifted.

Add a tag that says “To: You, From: Santa’s Spy!”.

It’s a surprise package your kids will love discovering under the tree.

36. Elf Plays Dentist

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits with a toy mouth, toothbrushes, cotton balls, and a note reading "Just doing a tooth check," on a gray surface.

Pose your elf next to a stuffed animal or doll with their mouth open and a tiny toothbrush or floss.

Place cotton balls around as “tools” and include a note like “Just doing a tooth check!”

37. Elf’s Candy Cane Jailbreak

An Elf on the Shelf sits inside a candy cane cage, with broken canes scattered and a note reading "Almost Escaped!"—a fun and easy Elf on the Shelf idea for holiday mischief.

Build a little jail cell out of candy canes and trap the elf inside.

Leave one of the “bars” broken or knocked over and write “Almost escaped!” on a sticky note.

38. Balloon Parade Elf

A toy elf is attached to five colorful balloons and appears to be floating near the ceiling.

Blow up a few small balloons and string them from the ceiling or across a room, like a floating Macy’s parade.

Tape your elf to a balloon or let them float among the bunches.

39. Elf Paints the Bananas

Elf doll sits on a bowl of fruit, holding a marker; bananas in the bowl are decorated with smiley faces and other doodles.

Use food-safe markers to draw silly faces or festive doodles on bananas in your fruit bowl.

Sit your elf with the marker in hand like they’ve been decorating the produce all night.

40. Tied Up by Toy Soldiers

An Elf on the Shelf is tied up with string and surrounded by green toy soldiers. A sign in front reads, "We caught you by spying!.

Set up a scene where green army men or toy figurines have captured your elf.

Wrap them up in yarn or ribbon and lay a “We caught you by spying!” note beside the dramatic scene.

41. Elf’s Zipline Adventure

An easy Elf on the Shelf idea: a toy elf doll is clipped to a candy cane and suspended on a string above a room decorated for Christmas, with a tree and lights twinkling in the background.

String a length of yarn or ribbon across the room and clip your elf to it using a candy cane as a handle.

Angle the line for a fun “action shot” as your elf ziplines into the holiday fun!

42. Wrapped Up in Bows

A toy elf sits among wrapped gifts and bows, holding a sign that says "I'm ready to be delivered.

Cover your elf in sticky gift bows from head to toe like they got tangled up in the gift-wrapping excitement.

Pose them in a pile of wrapping paper scraps and include a tag that reads “I’m ready to be delivered!”

43. Elf’s Toilet Paper Roll Sled

This easy Elf on the Shelf idea features the Elf on the Shelf doll riding a homemade sled made of cardboard and candy canes, perched on a wooden staircase landing.

Use an empty toilet paper roll as a mini sled, adding candy cane “runners” to the sides.

Set your elf riding down the stairs, couch, or table edge for a playful downhill ride.

A toy elf sits next to a plate of chocolate chip cookies, some with bites taken, and a note reading, “I just wanted a little snack...”.

Place your elf next to a plate of cookies (or an empty one) with crumbs all around their face and hands.

Add a note: “I just wanted a little snack…” For extra laughs, bite into one and blame the elf.

45. Elf’s Book Club

A toy Elf on the Shelf in glasses reads an open book to a circle of small teddy bears and animal toys, with a book club pick propped up in the background—one of many easy Elf on the Shelf ideas for storytime fun.

Set your elf up with an open tiny book or create one out of paper.

Place stuffed animals or other dolls in a semicircle like they’re having story time.

Add glasses made from pipe cleaners for an extra scholarly look.

46. Elf “Cleans” the Fridge

A toy elf holding a sponge sits inside a refrigerator door, next to a note that says, "Just doing my chores!" Various condiments and bottles are visible.

Stick your elf to the inside of the fridge door holding a dish sponge or mini spray bottle.

Rearrange a couple items to look “organized” and leave a note: “Just doing my chores!”

47. Elf’s Bubble Bath

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits in a large mug filled with marshmallows, surrounded by toy rubber ducks, mini bottles, and a cocktail umbrella—one of the cutest easy Elf on the Shelf ideas for holiday fun.

Place your elf in a bowl or mug filled with mini marshmallows for a “bubble bath.”

Add a drink umbrella, rubber ducky, or mini shampoo bottles made from small container caps.

48. Elf in the Blinds

A red Elf on the Shelf doll is sitting in the window blinds next to beige curtains with sunlight coming through the window.

Tuck your elf halfway into the window blinds or curtain rods like they’re peeking out or got stuck while spying.

It’s a low-effort setup that feels interactive and a little sneaky!

49. North Pole Smoothie Maker

A red Elf on the Shelf doll sits next to a blender filled with marshmallows, green candies, and red gumdrops. Christmas tree lights are blurred in the background.

Place your elf next to a blender filled with red and green candies or mini marshmallows.

Add a “recipe” note with funny ingredients like “1 scoop of joy, 3 candy canes, 1 dash of magic.”

50. Elf’s Candy Cane Jail

A toy elf sits in a candy cane jail with signs reading "Naughty Jail" and "Naughty List Holding Cell." A fun, easy Elf on the Shelf idea! The base is labeled sarahscoop.com.

Create a jail cell using upright candy canes as bars and cardboard or graham crackers for the base.

Place your elf inside and decorate with a sign that says “Naughty List Holding Cell.”

51. Elf Draws on Bananas Again (Revenge Edition)

A mischievous Elf on the Shelf sits behind a bowl of bananas adorned with holiday-themed drawings; a sign reads "ELF Strikes Again." This setup is one of many easy Elf on the Shelf ideas for festive fun!.

Take things up a notch by having your elf draw snowmen, Christmas trees, and even elf doodles all over the bananas with food-safe markers.

Include a sign: “Elf strikes again!”

52. Elf’s Paper Snowflake Workshop

A toy elf sits on a countertop holding a paper snowflake, surrounded by cut paper, tissue, and green scissors—an easy Elf on the Shelf idea for holiday fun.

Scatter tiny paper snowflakes across a table or counter and position your elf holding tiny scissors (or tape them on).

Leave a few in-progress snowflakes and some tissue paper scraps to complete the crafty chaos.

53. Elf Rides the Ceiling Fan

Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a ceiling fan with green curly ribbons hanging down.

Gently tie your elf to one blade of your ceiling fan using a ribbon or twist ties, like it’s a wild carnival ride.

Bonus points if you attach little streamers so it looks like he’s zoomed through the air!

54. Elf Plays Hide and Seek

A toy elf doll in red clothing sits on a box in an open drawer with a yellow note reading "FOUND ME!" in front of it.

Tuck your elf halfway into a cereal box, tissue box, or sock drawer.

Leave a note that says “Found me!” It’s an easy one for busy mornings but still tons of fun for the kids to discover.

55. Elf’s Toothpaste Art

A red Elf on the Shelf doll sits by a mirror with "Merry Christmas" written in toothpaste, next to a tube and cap on the bathroom counter—one of many easy Elf on the Shelf ideas for holiday fun.

Use toothpaste to write “Merry Christmas” or draw a heart on the bathroom mirror.

Set your elf beside the tube with a mischievous look, it’s a minty fresh morning prank!

56. Elf Makes a Marshmallow Snowman Army

A toy elf in red sits among marshmallow snowmen, one holding a flag that says "SNOW MUCH FUN!" The scene is set on a light surface with a neutral background.

Craft several mini snowmen using stacked marshmallows, pretzel arms, and chocolate chip eyes.

Position your elf as the proud commander of the marshmallow brigade, perhaps holding a toothpick flag that says “Snow much fun!”

57. Elf’s North Pole Salon

An easy Elf on the Shelf idea: An Elf on the Shelf doll sits in a toy chair holding a small doll, with a mirror, brush, and toy hair accessories on a table. A decorated Christmas tree is blurred in the background.

Sit your elf with a doll or action figure and a brush, with hair accessories scattered all around.

Bonus if you braid, clip, or restyle the doll’s hair, instant salon setup!

58. Elf Races with Toy Cars

A toy elf sits on a toy race track surrounded by miniature cars, with a sign that reads "READY, SET, SNOW!" placed in artificial snow.

Create a “race track” out of painter’s tape or paper, line up small cars, and set your elf at the starting line.

Add a flag or sign that says “Ready, Set, Snow!”

A red Elf on the Shelf doll sits atop a glass jar filled with chocolate chip cookies, with the jar lid open and a few cookies placed on the table nearby.

If you’ve already done the cookie jar, remix it by stuffing the elf inside a cookie container, but have their legs dangling out this time.

Like they fell in and got stuck mid-snack!

60. Elf Delivers a Holiday Joke

A red Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a wooden shelf next to books, holding a note and a candy cane, with blurred lights in the background.

Place your elf on a shelf (finally!) with a mini joke scroll or note card that reads a festive pun like: “What do elves use to take notes? Their elf-abet!”

Change it up every day to make your elf a little holiday comedian.

61. Elf Climbs a Candy Cane Ladder

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a candy cane ladder leaning against a wall with a sign that says “Candy Cane Climber Reporting for Duty!”.

Glue or tie together candy canes in a zigzag ladder shape using ribbon or pipe cleaners.

Lean the “ladder” against a cabinet or wall and pose your elf mid-climb, as if they're sneaking up to the top shelf.

Add a sticky note saying “Candy Cane Climber Reporting for Duty!”

62. Elf Makes Hot Cocoa Bombs

A toy elf sits with a mug of hot chocolate, marshmallows, cocoa bombs, peppermint candies, and a sign reading "Elves' favorite winter drink: boom boom boom cocoa.

Set up your elf next to a hot cocoa bomb or two, surrounded by mini marshmallows, cocoa powder, and crushed peppermint.

Create a sign: “Elves' Favorite Winter Drink: Boom Boom Cocoa!”.

It’s both a cute setup and a prompt for a cozy family treat.

63. Elf Slides Down the Railing

A toy elf sits on a decorated cardboard slide attached to a staircase railing, with "Best Slide Ever!" written inside the slide.

Use wrapping paper or felt to make a faux slide over your stair railing or a countertop edge.

Pose your elf at the top or mid-slide, with arms up like they're riding a rollercoaster.

Add a note like “Best Slide Ever!”

64. Elf Stuck in a Tissue Box

An Elf on the Shelf sits in a tissue box wrapped in festive paper with a sign that reads "TOO MANY SNOWFLAKES!" Crumpled tissues are nearby and a Christmas tree is in the background.

Insert your elf halfway into a tissue box so only their head and arms peek out from the top.

Write a funny message like “Too many snowflakes… I think I caught a cold!” and scatter tissues around like they’ve been sneezing all night.

65. Elf Wraps the Toilet in Ribbon

An Elf on the Shelf sits on a toilet with holiday-themed tape stretched across the seat, surrounded by gift boxes, scissors, and a note.

Wrap your toilet lid, seat, and even the tank in festive gift wrap or ribbon.

Sit the elf nearby with scissors or tape in hand and a note that says “Had to wrap everything... just in case!”

66. Elf Joins the Gingerbread Family

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits among gingerbread cookies and houses, holding a cookie, beside a sign that reads “Welcome to the Gingerbread Family.” Festive lights twinkle in the background.

Set your elf in the middle of a few gingerbread cookies or standing beside a gingerbread house.

Add a sign that reads “My new neighbors are SO sweet!”

Bonus if you draw eyes and smiles on the cookies to make them look like they’re chatting with the elf.

67. Elf Paints the Windows

A toy elf in a red outfit sits on a windowsill holding a whiteboard marker, with holiday decorations and snowflakes drawn on the window behind it.

Use window-safe paint markers or dry-erase markers to draw snowflakes, stars, or ornaments on a mirror or window.

Pose your elf with a marker in hand as if they’ve been decorating the house overnight.

68. Elf Goes Ice Skating on the Counter

A toy elf in a red outfit stands on a foil-covered surface with scattered colorful star-shaped sprinkles, in a kitchen setting.

Lay down a small mirror or a piece of shiny foil as the “ice.”

Add a pair of mini skates made from paperclips or cardboard, and pose your elf mid-spin.

Scatter a few snowflake sprinkles for wintry flair.

69. Elf Posts a Holiday Selfie

A red-and-white Elf on the Shelf doll sits next to a camera displaying a printed photo of the same elf on a white surface.

Print a tiny “polaroid” of your elf (or just a mini photo).

Tape it next to them with a phone or camera accessory.

Add a caption: “#SleighAllDay #SantaGram #ElfinAround”

70. Elf Steals the Dog’s Bed

A plush Elf on the Shelf doll sits among colorful textured dog toys, like a green turtle and spiky balls—one of many easy Elf on the Shelf ideas for festive fun.

Place your elf snuggled up in the dog’s bed or nestled next to pet toys.

Leave a note that says, “It’s too cold at the North Pole, hope Fido doesn’t mind!” It’s a hit with families that have furry friends.

71. North Pole Bake-Off

An Elf on the Shelf doll stands next to a bowl of flour, a whisk, cookies, sprinkles, and a "North Pole Bake Off Champion" sign in front of a decorated Christmas tree.

Set up a mini baking station using a cupcake liner as a mixing bowl, a sprinkle bottle as flour, and a mini spoon.

Pose your elf in a doll-sized apron with “flour” on its cheeks and a sign that says “North Pole Bake-Off Champion.”

Bonus: leave a real cookie or two to suggest they finished a batch!

72. Sleigh Ride Through the Pantry

Elf on the Shelf sits in a green sled made of candy canes, filled with chocolates, on a track of flour with cereal pieces lined up as wheels.

Turn a shoebox or a mini basket into a sleigh using candy cane “runners.”

Fill it with mini wrapped gifts (Hershey’s kisses, mints, or LEGO bricks).

Then have your elf "riding" it through a path of flour snow and cereal “rocks” in the pantry.

73. Christmas Movie Night

Four holiday dolls sit on a couch with popcorn and snacks in front of a Christmas tree, watching a holiday movie on a tablet—one of the cutest Elf on the Shelf ideas for an easy Elf on the Shelf setup this season.

Line up a few mini figurines or plush toys on the couch facing a tablet or printed mini TV screen with a still from a holiday movie.

Set your elf in a popcorn bucket or behind a pile of snacks with 3D glasses made from paper.

Add a tiny marquee sign: “Tonight’s Feature: North Pole Classics.”

74. Reindeer Stable Keeper

Elf on the Shelf doll sits next to a toy stable with two reindeer figures, a bucket of cereal, and a checklist reading “1. Stabler, 2. Checklin” near a decorated Christmas tree.

Create a mini stable out of a shoebox or building blocks and fill it with mini plastic reindeer or animal crackers.

Add mini hay (shredded paper or cereal).

Set your elf with a feed bucket and a clipboard labeled “Santa’s Reindeer Checklist.”

75. Elf’s Secret Candy Stash

An easy Elf on the Shelf idea: An Elf on the Shelf doll sits in a drawer full of candy and snacks, holding a yellow note that reads "DO NOT TELL SANTA!.

Hide your elf in a kitchen cabinet or drawer with piles of chocolate wrappers, candy canes, and snack-sized sweets.

Make it look like they’ve been sneaking bites behind everyone’s back.

Leave a note: “Do NOT tell Santa!”

76. North Pole Reading Nook

A plush elf doll sits on a patterned cushion, reading a book, surrounded by stacked miniature books, with string lights and a small Christmas tree in the background.

Prop your elf on a pillow or inside a doll’s bed surrounded by mini books.

Print out a mini version of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” or use tiny storybooks from a doll set.

Scatter faux snow and hang a string of battery-powered fairy lights to cozy it up.

77. Christmas Countdown Calendar

A small chalkboard labeled "Countdown" with numbers 1, 2, 3 stands next to an Elf on the Shelf doll and a mini Christmas tree. Paperclips are attached beneath the numbers.

Create a paper chain countdown or use a mini chalkboard that shows how many days until Christmas.

Place the elf nearby as the “official timekeeper” of the North Pole.

Kids can tear off a link each morning, practical and playful!

78. Elf’s Cocoa Bar Takeover

An easy Elf on the Shelf idea: a toy elf sits beside hot chocolate mugs with marshmallows, cocoa powder, candy canes, and a Christmas tree in the background.

Set up a cocoa station with your usual supplies, mugs, cocoa mix, candy canes, marshmallows, but go overboard.

Pose your elf in a pile of spilled cocoa powder or buried under a mountain of marshmallows with a sign: “I may have gotten carried away!”

79. Gift Wrapping Disaster

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a table surrounded by a remote, banana, used gift wrap, empty wrapping paper roll, and several rolls of tape.

Scatter some scraps of wrapping paper, tape, and ribbon, and make it look like your elf attempted to wrap random objects.

Leave a note: “Practicing for Santa’s workshop...oops!”

80. Holiday Spa Day

A toy elf in a bathrobe with cucumber slices on its eyes sits beside a bowl of marshmallows labeled "Snow Soak," nail polish, and a towel on a marble surface.

Wrap your elf in a hand towel like a spa robe, place cucumber slices over the eyes, and pose them next to a bowl of mini marshmallows.

Add a nail polish bottle and a rolled-up face cloth for a deluxe elf pamper session.

81. Mini Snowball Fight

Four toy figures, including an Elf on the Shelf, stand in front of a LEGO wall with toy snowballs and a card that says, "The Great Living Room Snowball Fight – Round 1!.

Create a tiny snowball scene using cotton balls or mini marshmallows.

Pose the elf ducking behind a LEGO wall, while mini plushies or dolls are tossing “snowballs” back.

Add a note: “The Great Living Room Snowball Fight—Round 1!”

82. Elf Decorates the Dollhouse

A toy Elf on the Shelf sits inside a decorated dollhouse with miniature furniture, Christmas stockings, and festive decorations.

Use mini garlands, stickers, or a few leftover holiday decorations and let your elf go wild inside a dollhouse or play kitchen.

You can hang tiny stockings, wrap presents the size of dice, and stick a wreath on the dollhouse door.

Add a sign: “Just helping the locals get festive!”

83. Elf Builds a Snowman Indoors

A doll in a red outfit sits next to a snowman made of a marshmallow and three stacked doughnuts, decorated with candy and twigs, on a white plate.

Stack powdered donut holes or marshmallows to form a tiny snowman, then place the elf nearby holding a toothpick “carrot” or licorice strip scarf.

Use chocolate chips or black icing for buttons and eyes.

It’s a sweet surprise and doubles as a morning snack!

84. Elf Hiding in the Fridge

A plush elf doll dressed in red and green sits on a refrigerator shelf among cartons, bottles, and food containers.

Nestle your elf inside the fridge next to the milk or eggs, bundled in a baby sock scarf.

Add a note that says “Too warm by the fireplace, needed a chill!”

Bonus if you leave a tiny thermos labeled “iced cocoa.”

85. Elf Joins the Puzzle Fun

A red Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a partially completed jigsaw puzzle with a puzzle piece in hand; a Christmas tree is blurred in the background.

Place the elf beside an in-progress puzzle with a few pieces in its lap or hands.

You can even remove one piece and write “I borrowed this!” on a sticky note for a fun twist.

Ideal for families who love quiet time games.

86. Elf Takes a Bubble Bath for Helping Santa

A toy elf wearing a chef hat sits in a teacup filled with mini marshmallows next to rubber ducks and signs that read "Spa Day for Santa’s Helpers.

Fill a bowl or teacup with mini marshmallows or white pom-poms to look like bubbles.

Pose your elf leaning back with a rubber ducky or wearing a paper shower cap.

Add a sign like “Spa Day for Santa’s Helpers.”

87. Elf Goes Camping

A toy elf sits by a small toy campfire with a marshmallow on a stick, next to graham crackers and chocolate, in front of a miniature tent indoors.

Make a tent out of cardstock or fabric scraps and place a flameless tealight “campfire” in front.

Pose your elf with a mini marshmallow on a toothpick as if roasting it over the flame.

Scatter graham cracker pieces for extra effect.

88. Elf Swings from the Lights

A stuffed elf doll hangs from a light fixture by red and white string, holding a sign that says "Training for the Reindeer Games!.

Tie a loop of ribbon or string around a hanging light fixture or chandelier, and suspend your elf like they’re swinging from the ceiling.

Add a note: “Training for the Reindeer Games!”

89. Elf Creates a Sugar Snow Angel

Elf on the Shelf doll lying on a wooden surface, appearing to make a snow angel shape in a pile of white powder.

Lay your elf flat on the table or a baking sheet filled with sugar, flour, or crushed salt.

Shape little “wings” and a halo around it.

Great for laughs, and a mess kids will love.

90. Elf Starts a Paper Towel Race

A toy elf figure sits on a paper ramp laid down a carpeted staircase, with two toy cars placed on the ramp.

Roll out two tubes of wrapping paper down the stairs or across the hallway like a race track.

Place the elf in a toy car at the top and maybe another toy racing beside them.

Add signs like “North Pole Grand Prix” for flair.

91. Elf Hosts a Karaoke Night

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a stool in front of a microphone and a "Karaoke Night" sign, facing an audience of toy figures.

Set up a mini microphone (use a cake pop stick and pom-pom) and place your elf in front of a toy audience of action figures or dolls.

Make a backdrop from wrapping paper and hang a sign that says “Elf Idol.”

Bonus: add lyrics to “Jingle Bells” on a tiny paper card.

92. Elf Goes Sledding on the Stairs

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a sled at the top of stairs, sliding down a makeshift ramp covered in artificial snow and a cloth.

Use a cookie sheet, piece of cardboard, or upside-down Tupperware lid as a sled.

Place your elf at the top of the stairs or on a blanket ramp with hands in the air like it's mid-sled.

Sprinkle a little “snow” (flour or fake snow) for extra effect.

93. Elf Plays Dentist for the Toys

A toy elf dressed as a dentist brushes the teeth of a baby doll seated in a blue toy dental chair. Dental props and a Christmas tree are visible in the background.

Pose your elf in a white paper coat or wrap a napkin around its neck like a doctor.

Set up a doll or stuffed animal in a “chair” and use a toothbrush and floss pick as props.

Add a note: “Open wide, it’s elf check-up time!”

94. Elf Turns the Toilet into a Hot Tub

An Elf on the Shelf sits on a sponge in a toilet bowl filled with marshmallows and rubber ducks, with sunglasses and a note that says "Takin' a dip before my shift.

Float your elf on a plastic lid or sponge in the bathroom sink (or closed toilet bowl with the lid up) filled with marshmallows and rubber ducks.

Add sunglasses and a note: “Takin’ a dip before my shift!”

95. Elf Sends a Postcard to Santa

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits at a table with a small mailbox, a red pen, and a partially filled-out naughty or nice report card form.

Set up your elf writing a mini letter or postcard using paper and markers.

Place next to a pretend mailbox made from a tissue box or a toy mailbox, and leave a copy of the letter out for the kids to read.

96. Elf Builds a Gingerbread Village

A red-and-white Elf on the Shelf doll stands beside a decorated gingerbread house with candy, in front of a blurred Christmas tree.

Set your elf beside a tiny gingerbread house or use graham crackers to make a mini one.

Add frosting “snow,” gumdrops, and candy canes.

Pose your elf like it’s placing a gumdrop on the roof and scatter extra supplies for a “work in progress” look.

97. Elf Paints the Windows

A red-and-white Elf on the Shelf doll sits on a window sill next to white festive decorations reading "Merry Christmas" with a tree and snowflakes. Two markers are on the sill.

Use washable window markers or dry erase markers and create festive doodles like snowflakes, trees, or a “Merry Christmas!” sign.

Pose your elf holding a marker like it’s been up all night decorating the glass.

98. Elf's Balloon Avalanche

An easy Elf on the Shelf idea: An Elf on the Shelf doll sits atop a door decorated with colorful balloons, holding a sign that reads "INCOMING.

Tape a plastic tablecloth over the top of a doorway and stuff it with balloons.

Place the elf holding scissors or a pushpin with a sign that reads: “Incoming!”

When your kids open the door, instant balloon avalanche.

99. Elf Hosts a Pajama Party

Four dolls and two stuffed animals in sleeping bags sit under a blanket fort with popcorn, hot cocoa, an open book, and a flashlight, surrounded by string lights and greenery.

Gather a few stuffed animals, dolls, or mini elves in a blanket fort or tent.

Use a flashlight, string lights, and mini sleeping bags made of socks or tissues.

Pose your elf in a cozy spot with a book, popcorn, or mini cocoa cup.

100. Elf On The Shelf Elf Preps Santa's Workshop

A Santa's Workshop sign, an Elf on the Shelf doll, small presents, tape, ribbon, and toy blocks are arranged on a table with a holiday-themed blueprint.

Set up a table or shelf with tools, ribbon, mini gifts, and a “Santa’s Workshop” sign.

Your elf can be measuring with a ruler, building a LEGO toy, or drawing blueprints for Santa’s sleigh.

Bonus if the kids can join in and build something with their own blocks that day!

An Elf on the Shelf doll sits in front of a Christmas tree decorated with toilet paper and ornaments, holding a sign that reads "Decorating... my way?" A toilet paper roll is nearby.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas

The holiday season is all about creating joyful memories, and the Elf on the Shelf is the perfect little helper to make each day feel like a celebration.

With imaginative and easy-to-execute ideas, you’ll never have to scramble late at night, wondering what your elf should do next.

So go ahead and get playful, get crafty, and let your elf bring a little more sparkle to your family’s holiday countdown.

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