Best Elf on the Shelf Leaving Ideas
If you’re looking for Elf on the Shelf leaving ideas that will impress the kids, you’re in the right place!
Saying goodbye to the Elf can be bittersweet, but after 10 years of hosting four mischievous elves in our home, I’ve discovered some creative ways to make their departure extra special, filled with Christmas cheer and festive fun.
Whether you want to incorporate Christmas decorations or start a new holiday tradition, these ideas will make saying goodbye to your Christmas elf a memorable experience.
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When does the Elf on the Shelf leave?
The Elf on the Shelf’s job is done on Christmas Eve, after weeks of fun, mischief, and spreading Christmas holiday cheer.
Once Father Christmas has delivered all the presents to children around the world, he stops by to pick up the Elf and take them back to the North Pole for a well-deserved rest.
It’s a magical moment, as Santa Claus gathers all his elves and reindeer just before heading home.
But don’t worry, your Elf will be back again next holiday season, usually arriving around December 1st, ready to help with your Christmas traditions and spread more joy during the Christmas season.
Elf on the Shelf departure ideas
If you’re looking for memorable ways to say goodbye, you’re in the right place!
After 24 days of magical antics and Christmas fun, the Elf deserves a grand send-off.
You can get creative by incorporating classic Christmas decorations like ornaments and wreaths, or even plan a small family celebration with holiday treats like gingerbread cookies or candy canes.
The possibilities are endless, and these ideas will add a touch of Christmas magic to your Elf’s final day.
Elf on the Shelf goodbye letter
Add a special touch of magic to your Elf’s final day with our free Elf on the Shelf goodbye letters. These personalized letters are the perfect way to wrap up your Elf’s holiday visit, leaving your children with a sweet farewell they’ll treasure.
You can choose between two versions: one letter from a single Elf, and another from multiple Elves if your family has more than one.
Whether it’s your child’s first year with the Elf or you’ve been welcoming them back for years, these letters add a heartwarming conclusion to their seasonal mischief.
Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt
Turn your Elf’s last day into an exciting adventure with our Elf on the Shelf hide and seek riddles!
Instead of just saying goodbye, send your kids on a fun treasure hunt around the house to discover hidden surprises left by the Elf.
Hide the clues in creative spots, under the Christmas tree, near the stocking, or even with the Christmas Eve box. It’s a wonderful way to build excitement before Santa arrives and a perfect final activity for your Elf to engage the kids one last time.
This scavenger hunt will leave them with smiles and memories until the Elf returns next year.
Editable elf departure letter
For a personalized touch, this editable elf departure letter allows you to customize your Elf’s final message.
Add their name, personalize notes, and leave it near the Christmas lights or even the hot chocolate station on Christmas morning. It’s a fun keepsake and a tradition you can revisit year after year.
Elf goodbye puzzle
Create a lasting keepsake with the Elf goodbye puzzle. This sentimental farewell activity comes with a festive message, like “I’ll miss you so much!”
Kids can complete the puzzle together before heading to bed on Christmas Eve, adding one final Christmas craft to the holiday celebrations.
Elf says goodbye through the mirror
Take the farewell to a whole new level with this magical idea where your Elf “disappears” through a mirror or window.
Using a simple trick with shaving cream, create the illusion that the Elf has slipped away back to the North Pole through a magical portal.
This fun and quick idea is sure to delight the kids and adds a touch of mystery to the Elf’s departure, keeping the holiday spirit alive until next year.
Elf on the Shelf: Night Before Christmas book
End the Elf’s last day with a cozy bedtime story by gifting your child The Elf on the Shelf’s Night Before Christmas. This beautifully illustrated book makes the perfect parting gift and a lovely tradition for Christmas Eve.
Snuggle up with the kids and read this special story, bringing the Elf’s adventure full circle as you prepare for Santa’s arrival. For more ideas on Christmas and elf-themed books, check out our curated list of holiday favorites.
Elf on the Shelf donates toy letter
Encourage your children to give back this Christmas by having your Elf deliver a donate toys letter. This teaches the kids about generosity, while also decluttering before Santa arrives.
You can even make this a part of your Christmas traditions by leaving the toys under the Christmas tree, ready for Santa’s elves to collect.
Easy Santa pancakes for elf’s last day
Why not make your Elf’s last day extra special with a fun holiday breakfast? These easy Santa pancakes are the perfect way to celebrate the Elf’s departure.
Decorate pancakes with red-and-green toppings, like strawberries and whipped cream, and make it a fun Christmas morning tradition before the Elf heads back to the North Pole.
Last Updated on 7 April 2025 by Clare Brown