77 Last-Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Whimsical Christmas Eve Decor

To mark the countdown until Christmas Day, you might use an advent calendar to check off the 24 days leading up to Christmas. But you can also spend the time before Santa Claus climbs down the chimney decorating your home. If the adults in your family set up elaborate Elf on the Shelf ideas for the kids to enjoy, you know that from tiny Elf on the Shelf accessories to hilarious scenes all over the house, the options are endless.

If you aren't familiar with the history of the Elf on the Shelf, here's a quick recap before you buy your own Elf on the Shelf this Christmas. These special elves are Santa's Scout Elves, who travel to homes near and far to report back who's been nice and who's been naughty. After reporting to Santa, the elves reappear in a new spot each day, causing lots of giggles from the kids who may be shocked to find their friend in surprising locations like the bathtub or hanging from a light fixture. Arranging the scene is a Christmas activity in itself for older kids and parents, who can have fun placing the Elf in crazy situations that will prompt more laughter than a Christmas riddle.

Elf on the Shelf ideas are meant to bring smiles and cheer into your household throughout the month of December, and these amusing scenes may even top funny Christmas memes and festive jokes. Whether this is your first year with an Elf on the Shelf visiting your home, or your family has enjoyed the tradition for years now, read on for the best Elf on the Shelf ideas to try this December.