Elf on the Shelf Matching Game Printable
When December gets hectic, I always come back to a few easy wins, this Elf on the Shelf matching game is one of them.
It’s quick to prep, fun for all ages, and gives us a festive way to slow down for a few minutes.
My son used to love flipping over the cards and trying to beat me at finding pairs (and honestly, he usually did).
Whether you’re homeschooling, teaching preschool, or just need something simple before school or bedtime, this memory game fits right in.
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Elf Memory Game
Memory games have always been popular in our house, especially once my son realized he could consistently beat me at them!
This Elf matching game adds a festive twist to a classic favorite. It’s a fun way to bring some holiday cheer to a quiet afternoon or even a North Pole breakfast.
How to Set It Up
Grab the Elf matching game printable (link below). It includes 12 unique holiday-themed images on one page.
Print two copies of that page so you’ll have a full set of matching pairs.
Cut out each image to create 24 cards in total (12 matching pairs). We like to laminate ours so they last through multiple plays, especially with younger kids.
Want to extend the fun? Try pairing this with our free printable elf name generator for a silly twist before or after the game.
How to Play
Start by shuffling the cards and laying them face down on a flat surface. Four rows of six cards works well for younger kids, but feel free to mix them up more for a challenge.
Each player takes turns flipping over two cards, trying to find a match. If they succeed, they keep the pair and take another turn. If not, they flip the cards back over and the next player goes.
As the game progresses, kids start to remember where certain cards are, which adds a fun bit of strategy, especially when they start beating the adults!
Keep playing until all pairs are found. Whoever has the most matches at the end wins. A small treat or elf-themed surprise makes a fun prize and adds a bit of holiday excitement.
Tip: Add your own doodles or designs to the card backs for a personal touch, especially if your kids want to help create the game.
More Fun with Your Elf on the Shelf
Looking for more ways to keep the Elf fun going? Here are some of our favorite Elf on the Shelf printables:
- Christmas matching game – If your kids loved this one, we’ve got a full set of Christmas-themed memory games too.
- Elf-Sized Games – Don’t let the Elf miss out! We have a collection of mini printable games, including a tiny version of this matching game that your Elf can “bring” from the North Pole.
- Elf Scavenger Hunt – Hide your Elf with clues around the house and turn their arrival into a holiday treasure hunt.
- Printable Elf Story + Coloring Pages – Read a fun Elf tale together, then color in the matching pages for a cozy December activity.
These little extras have saved me more than once when I needed a quick, magical win in the middle of a busy week.
WANT ALL OUR ELF ACTIVITIES IN ONE PLACE?
Elf on the Shelf Books
If you’re looking to add a cozy moment to your Elf tradition, reading together has always been one of our favorites.
Here are a few Elf-themed books that pair perfectly with December mornings or bedtime:
- Elf on the Shelf: Meet the Scout Elves – A fun introduction to the elves and how they bring magic to homes each December.
- Elf on the Shelf Welcome to the North Pole – A behind-the-scenes look at where the elves play, work, and prepare for their big month.
- A Night Before Christmas (Elf edition) – A festive twist on the classic story, with Scout Elves helping Santa make Christmas extra special.
These stories have become part of our holiday rhythm, especially on those slower days when the Elf doesn’t move but we still want to keep the magic going.
Want All Of Our Memory Games In One Place?
Get Your Free Elf on the Shelf Memory Game Printable Here!
Ready to grab your free printable? Just pop your name and email into the form below, and it’s all yours!
If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free elf matching game.
Last Updated on 29 July 2025 by Clare Brown