The Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas tradition. Each night, he uses his magic to fly to the North Pole and tell Santa Claus about his daily adventures. When the family wakes up each morning, the kids run around the house to see what he's been doing. Some elves are particularly creative with their activities. You don't know where he's going to end up!
Check out some of the funniest Elf on the Shelf photos ever....
Frozen Elf
You can bet the kids went wild when they saw this. Most young girls are big fans of the Disney movie Frozen, so you can imagine their delight when they saw their favorite elf trapped in a block of ice by none other than Queen Elsa of Arendelle. How cute!
Extra preparation went into this one, as the parents had to stick the elf in the freezer ahead of time without the kids noticing.
Dancing Elves
This pair of elves is obviously part of the infamous Nutcracker Ballet. The one on the right is showing off his skills, demonstrating that even elves can be flexible when they want to be. But the best part of this trio are the cute and tiny yellow and pink tutus.
Some of the elf-on-the-shelf set-ups are full of mischief and some are even mean-spirited! But not this one, cute as can be!
Elf Versus Space Ranger
This is a battle a child won't soon forget. It's Scout the Elf versus Buzz Lightyear, the infamous action figure from the Toy Story films. They're carefully protecting themselves between walls made of Legos as they pelt one another with snowballs made of marshmallows. Who will ultimately win the fight?
This is a cleverly staged scene that also brings in the theme of winter fun. This one deserves an A.
Chilly Elf
How this elf wound up in the refrigerator is anyone's guess. It's a good thing he has a blanket to keep him warm. But elves are from the North Pole, so it shouldn't be a problem. And if he's thirsty, he can have a sip of milk or coffee creamer.
It's cute that they were able to find a towel small enough to act as a blanket for this chilly scene.
Clean-Shaven Elf
Even elves have to practice good grooming habits. And this elf may be older than you think if he has to shave every morning. That razor does look a little big, however. Hopefully, he doesn't cut his cute little face. A five o'clock shadow might not be too bad after all.
And is that a tiny little bottle of shaving cream? It makes us wonder if he really does shave!
Clowning Around
We love it when we find our favorite elf clowning around. This guy decided that the family portrait would look oh so much better with a little enhancement. The fix? Clown noses! They make everyone look quite jolly. It's the perfect mood for the holidays, and a cheap accessory as well.
This is a cute elf prank that pokes fun at the whole family in a playful way. This is a winner!
Pooping Elf
Elves are more like humans than you thought. And just like people, they need to go to the bathroom. Unfortunately, this elf chose to use a sink to do his business instead of a toilet. But as expected, his poo is cute and made of tiny Hershey's kisses. But don't eat them!
This scene shows more of the naughty side of the elf-on-the-shelf that we usually end up seeing shared on social media. He can't be sweet all of the time!
Elf In Danger
Not everyone is a fan of the elf. While he spreads Christmas cheer, there's always a villain who wants to do him in. In this case, he was kidnapped, tied up, and strapped to some train tracks. Hopefully the child in charge of finding him each day came to his rescue in time.
We couldn't imagine Thomas the train actually taking part in running over the elf though! He just wouldn't.
Sunbathing Elf
Just because elves are used to the cold weather doesn't mean they don't like kicking back and relaxing in the sunshine. This elf knows how to take advantage of a day off. While the sunglasses may be a tiny bit too big, they are definitely a really nice fashion statement.
This family must live in Florida or somewhere else where the sun is shining in December! This elf knows how to enjoy life.
Golfing Elf
You may not realize it, but elves are very athletic. Some of them are particularly good at a very challenging sport -- golf. This elf is practicing his putting skills using miniature marshmallows. At the North Pole he probably practices with snowballs. Getting a hole in one is no problem for this guy.
This set-up is quite extensive and creative! Also, the family who staged it must be golf enthusiasts. Well done!
Elf Under Attack
Remember what we said about enemies of the elf? Well, they will stop at nothing to keep the elf from spreading Christmas cheer. Notice these army men. They are serious about their mission, Operation Elf, and will do what they must to contain him, even if that means taping him to the wall.
The elf is the one getting pranked in this scene! The tables have turned, this time around.
Vegetarian Elf
Some elves have dietary restrictions. They are subjected to so much Christmas candy that if they don't watch what they eat, they risk putting on too many pounds. And a fat elf has a hard time participating in his favorite activities. That's why they are big proponents of fruits and veggies.
We have to think that the parents had a hand in this one, trying to encourage the kids to eat healthier!
Superheroes Versus Elf
Spiderman, the Hulk, and Captain America are just some of the superheroes who are challenging this elf in the ultimate snowball fight. You have to give the elf some credit. He's all by himself and up against a group with pretty amazing superpowers. Which one would you bet on to win?
Although these superheroes have a strong track record, the elf only comes out to play once a year... we think he's prepared.
Workout Elf
One way an elf stays in shape in addition to watching what he eats is working out. Fitness is a top priority. And if you don't have access to weights, all you need is some marshmallows and a straw. But don't be fooled, we've seen Buddy lift a pile of quarters too.
Judging by the size of those marshmallows, this guy looks like he could use a spotter! Or else he might get pinned.
Bathing Beauty Elf
Even elves need their relaxation time. Sure, a crock pot usually prepares meals, but it's also the perfect size for an elf bathtub. The bubbles are made of cotton balls, and there's a little rubber duck to keep the elf company. Other necessities are available on the table to his right.
These elves really know how to live! If only we did this good of a job of taking "me" time for ourselves!
Swinging Elf
Elves enjoy hanging out at home. Literally. This one is particularly proud of his makeshift swing, which is cleverly made out of an empty roll of toilet paper. We love how he chose to hang from a doorway. It gives him a good view of everything around him during the holidays.
This one might take a minute for the shorter kids to find, but it's all the more of a surprise once they spot him.
Elf Dentist
What is Barbie to do if she has a toothache? Have no fear, her friend the Elf/dentist is here! Who knew he possessed such skills? Apparently, there is a dental school at the North Pole. He an do extractions, fix cavities, and other general procedures. Would you be his patient?
We love how the scene is set-up with all of the little tools he needs to perform dentist work. You won't feel a thing, Barbie!
Elf Food Taster
This elf sampled one of the dog treats and apparently was pretty disgusted by the taste. There's no way they are edible for humans, including the most important one of all -- Santa Claus! Yes, some elves are tasked with being food tasters. It's a surprise that the job hasn't made him chubby.
We hope the kids are able to find the elf and rescue him from the dog's bowl before Fido gets to him!
Elf In A Cotton Ball Igloo
Everyone loves a snow igloo, even if it's made out of cotton balls. This tiny elf is taking a little break inside his home away from home. There's no better way to relax than inside a little hut while the wind and snow blows outside. All that's missing is hot chocolate.
To be honest, we're a little jealous that he gets such an awesome place to hang out! We want our own piece of a winter wonderland, too.
Elf Under Attack
Here's another example of an elf who was unable to escape from his enemies. Somehow a group of tiny Lego men was able to subdue the elf and tie him down. Maybe they drugged his eggnog. Where was the elf taste tester? Someone needs to rescue him as soon as possible.
Otherwise, he won't be able to spread cheer and mischief for the remaining days ahead of Christmas. Free him!
Elf On The Shelf Has Tamed Pixar
When the Elf on the Shelf visits your home they don't want to compete with Pixar for your attention. Your children might receive a bunch of Pixar toys but they will soon be under the control of the alpha elf. Just more proof that the Elf on the Shelf has motives we have not yet begun to understand.
We love everything about the details in this scene, from the snow to the antlers!
Jurassic Elf
The Elf on the Shelf needs all the help they can get while traveling from one child's home to the next. Why not travel in style on the back of a dinosaur. To be 100% honest we're actually more scared of the elf than the man-eating dinosaur they have decided to make their pet.
This elf looks all too comfortable and natural while riding on the back of this dangerous species!
Game Of Shelves
Only one elf can rule the shelf and they will not allow any of their enemies to stand in the way. These marshmallow snowmen attempted to breach the wall but our suspiciously calm elf had other ideas. Stay tuned for next weeks thrilling episode of GoS when our victor is crowned.
Sure, he looks innocent, but we know him well enough to know that's not the case. Suspect number one!
So That's Where Fireball Whiskey Comes From
Every time you attempt to drink Fireball Whiskey for the rest of your life this image will be burned into your head. They had to get the cinnamon flavoring from somewhere so this makes 100% sense in our mind. So where does Yagermeister come from? And what about anything from Pinnacle Vodka? So many questions.
Whoever set this up clearly enjoys have some Fireball, but now they will have this image in mind!
This Is Why Elf On The Shelf Doesn't Have A Day Job
And this is why Elf on the Shelf only works for one month out of the year – they would be a liability the other 11 months. Sorry kids but we can't find the elf today but here's a photocopy of their rear end. That's still probably less traumatizing than an actual elf on the shelf hanging out in your home for the month of December.
Here's a copy of the tiniest rear end ever!
After A Heavy Night Of Elf Partying
Many people look at the elf on the shelf and think "funny gimmick" or "creepy elf." The truth is, we don't know about this relatively new Christmas tradition. Maybe elf is depressed and drowns their pain in booze and pills.
Perhaps this was just a wild night that's out of the normal for this shelf loving elf. We may never know. Some people tend to overdo it during the holidays, so we're not one to judge.
Would You Like To Play A Game?
If we walked into an Elf on the Shelf who had wrapped up a toilet in wrapping paper and was staring at us from the toilet paper roll we would pack up, leave our home, and never return.
One of the rules of the elf is that you don't touch them, which would make for a very uncomfortable day of no potty breaks or at least a lack of toilet paper if that's the last roll in the house.
Do No Disturb The Sleeping Elf
We have no clue what the Elf on the Shelf does all night long but apparently, this elf went a little too hard the night before. We're most impressed by their ability to sleep while holding a sign without dropping it, that's a pretty neat talent which only serves one purpose.
It's best to leave him alone and let him recharge his batteries for future plans of mischief that will no doubt occur later in the week!
The Elf On The Shelf On The Voice
The Elf on the Shelf visits the voice and two of their judges are Pee-Wee Herman and a Chipette? Actually, this works because it's no stranger of a combo than Adam Levine and Blake Shelton. Our interest is now piqued and we want to know who the other judges are and why they haven't turned around their red solo chairs.
We love this super creative rendition of Elf on the Shelf!
We're Glad That's Not Real
Food pranks are the absolute worst. You think you're biting into something delicious, but no, someone messed with your food and it tastes disgusting. Before you know it, you have trust issues with food. This Elf on the Shelf is pretty clever, especially since a couple of them are missing their Hershey's kisses.
Whoever set this one up will probably have those cookies all to themselves because you just can't be too sure.
Do As I Say, Not As I Do
These parents set-up this Elf doing something naughty, to remind them to be good. We're not sure how this one will work out, but it's bound to make the kids laugh when they go to brush their teeth at night.
This time of year, every kid is on their best behavior, trying to make the 'nice' list! This Elf knows he has no chance of receiving gifts from Santa, so he's going full-out.
Spreading Holiday Cheer
This elf really just got carried away with the spirit of Christmas and ended up wrapping this doggo in some lights. Although the dog doesn't look too happy, the elf looks quite proud of his accomplishment and is patiently waiting for someone to notice his job well done.
We hope someone is able to save the dog soon! He's probably the only one who has witnessed the Elf in action! Christmas is going to the dogs.
The Girls Are Going To Be Upset
Having the Elf on the Shelf (or Elves) tie up other dolls is a favorite for sure. This one is staged pretty hilariously with two dolls tied up back to back. Although, they don't look too upset with it all.
Whoever's dolls these are might be upset thinking the Elves kidnapped them! 'Tis the Christmas season after all, and it's all in good fun. Some little girl is going to be rescuing her dolls when she sees this?
Dad Helped With This One
It's the Elf and his beer-deer! Dad definitely had a hand in this one, as it required some beers to be polished off. The result is super cute with all the beer-deer and their pipe cleaner antlers. On Bud! On Weiser! On Lager and Can!
This is a cute set-up with even a green wall for a backdrop! We haven't seen this idea before but it's certainly a good one to copy if you have the supplies (wink wink).
Who's The Foodie?
There's definitely a foodie in this house. Here someone took the time to stage Elf on the Shelf as the owner of a food truck! This one is super cute, with all the kids' action figures standing in line waiting to be served. We hope this display was left for everyone to see.
This entrepreneurial elf isn't wasting time-- he's here to start a business and make money! I'll take two gummies!
Elf Stole Your Starbucks
Mom is going to be mad when she walks over to see that her Starbucks has been swiped by the Elf! This clever staging has the Elf actually in the cup, which makes it even funnier. Points for creativity on this one!
It must be nice and toasty in that peppermint mocha! He doesn't seem to mind it though. Sometimes the drink it so good, you just have to climb in for the full experience.
He's Not Going To Be Happy When He Looks In The Mirror...
This very naughty Elf on the Shelf stole some makeup and picked the son of the household as his victim. This boy is going to be utterly confused when he wakes up and takes a look in the mirror! We wonder if he will truly blame the Elf...
Either way, this actually happened and this kid is a deep sleeper! Not only do they have a full face of makeup and hair accessories, but there is a bright light in their face. They're going to be opening their presents with quite a look going on.
Too Far Elf, Too Far
What could these poor dogs have possibly done to deserve this torment? This elf really has no boundaries as to what he'll do to torment others. We're pretty sure that these dogs are potty trained and don't require diapers but this little elf will do anything for a good picture.
Little kids in the family probably got a good laugh when they came across this one! Look, the dogs are babies!
Think He Regrets It?
Kids love leaving milk and cookies out for Santa. But this year, it looks like the Elf on the Shelf got a hold of them instead! This cute set-up shows the Elf regretting his decisions with a massive milk headache and belly ache from all of the cookies intended for Santa!
We wonder what the kids' reactions were when they came out to see this scene in the morning! We hope Santa got a bite!
...Is That Really Sharpie, Though?
Whoever set-up this Elf decided to write marker all over the bathroom mirror and place the Elf alongside two Sharpie pens on the counter. We just have one question... Is that really Sharpie? Because if it is... yikes.
We hope that this funny trick didn't get out of hand, or someone is going to be face-palming over their mistake. But that's what makes it all the more exciting. Is the bathroom ruined or not?!
I Can't Believe It's Not Butter
You never know where the Elf on the Shelf is going to pop up... this time it was the fridge! Here he's sleeping in the butter compartment, all cozy with a blanket. Whoever was the first to find him in the fridge door got a good laugh!
Today, the butter compartment, tomorrow.... who knows. That's the fun of Elf on the Shelf, you never know where he's going to pop up next!
What's Going On Here?
This picture is just all-around confusing. Are we missing something here? Or is this actually just as random as it looks? As if the cooked spaghetti on these adorable puppers wasn't enough, they threw the elf in there just to spice things up a bit. We're willing to bet that he's the culprit.
It would make sense that the elf would have a little magic up his sleeve and be able to cook the pasta with a twitch of his nose! We believe!
Kicking Back
This elf is just taking a load off after a long day of mischief. Apparently, Elves need some relaxation time too! It looks like he's fashioned a little hammock out of some toilet paper and is putting his feet up to contemplate his next scheme.
He also looks a bit... guilty... wouldn't you say? But that's just the lifestyle that the leads. He knows who he is and he's okay with it.
Feel The Burn
It looks like this elf enjoys doing a little bit of yoga in his free time. Where he got ahold of an iPhone, we have no idea but he has pretty good form. He has to stay fit during the holiday season or else he'll get too fat to be his rambunctious self.
We have to say, he has better self-discipline then some other people we know... staying fit through the holidays is tough!
Let it Go!
In case you were ever wondering what this elf likes to listen to in his free time, it's the Frozen soundtrack. We can all agree that this isn't shocking, but what is surprising is the iPod that he's using. We didn't even know that those were around anymore.
It's likely that he's borrowed someone else's beloved iPod and is draining their battery. This Elf isn't too concerned about respecting others' things, though.
Cats Game
It looks like these two were caught in the middle of a game of tic-tac-toe. When you're not around, these toys like to get together and socialize with one another. Usually, they like to play Clue or checkers, but today they decided to keep things simple.
What's cute about scenes like this is that kids can believe they were playing and paused only when they realized that humans were around, keeping their imaginations wild.
What To Choose
Is it really Christmas time without Christmas movies? This elf doesn't think so. That's why he's pillaging the DVD collection and pulling out every Christmas movie available. We bet he'll spend the next couple of days on the couch watching them all. We wonder which one is his favorite?
One thing we know about the Elf is that he isn't one to clean up after himself! So you'll have to put all of these movies away yourself.
Good Boy
Here, we have an incredibly well-trained and respectful elf. It looks like he learned what the litter box was for and took it upon himself to use it. Hopefully, the cat doesn't mind because this elf looks like he's getting down to business. He didn't even take off his pants!
Cats are pretty feisty and territorial animals, so he's got about 20 seconds before a furry beast will come along and kick him out!
Underwear Hung By The Chimney With Care
Wow., good one elf. Nothing is better on Christmas morning than waking up to see your stockings gone and replaced by your own underwear. This elf looks so proud of his little prank, but he better hope that all the underwear was clean or else he might have just played himself.
There's nothing more embarrassing than finding that your underwear is on display for the entire house to see! Bad Elf!
Twister With The Gang
This is yet another game that the elf likes to play with his friends. Twister is a classic game and a great way to really get up close and personal with somebody. The only problem is that we're not sure how these toys are going to play...
He did manage to pull out the Twister mat himself, so we can only imagine what else he's capable of. Now these toys are on his team!
Sneaky Little Guy
Apparently, nobody is safe with this elf running around the house. Although some of these pranks are all in good fun, this is going a little too far. now you can't even go to the bathroom without being on your toes because this little elf will get you with one of his "jokes".
Are you familiar with this one? Well now you'll be checking the toilet (and checking it twice like Santa) because you don't know what will happen next.
Fun To Be An Elf
It can't be too bad being an elf. Being that small, the world is one giant playground. Though it might be burdensome at times, you get to do things like this and build a fort out of Jenga blocks. Not something you get to do every day.
It might have taken a minute to spot this elf hidden at the end of a table, but he's got plans. Big, big plans.
Lending A Hand
It's this elf's duty to help decorate and prepare for Christmas. However, we don't think he exactly knows what toilet paper is for. Maybe they don't have it in the North Pole? It doesn't matter because it's the thought that counts, and who could get mad at a decorating elf?
Likely, this isn't the look that the family was going for this year. Thanks for your help, Elf, but we're going to nix this idea.
So Satisfying
This elf is doing what every person loves doing, cutting the tag off of a pillow. If you don't love doing this, are you even a real person? However, what this elf doesn't know is that ripping it off is the truly satisfying way to go. It's okay, he's just an elf and he'll learn soon enough.
Someone should really get those scissored locked up with an elf on the loose!
So 2011
Clearly, this elf just couldn't let the 2011 internet fad of "planking" disappear. He's keeping it alive all by himself and taking it to the next level by planking on a tower of Jenga pieces. His friends are watching in awe as he perfectly executes the maneuver.
This is a clever and cute set-up that's quite impressive too. Maybe tomorrow we'll see him doing a Tik Tok video. You just never know.
This Elf Needs Help
Looks like this elf messed with the wrong person. It's about time that somebody finally showed him who's boss. He needed to understand that although he may be clever, he's not very big. So people can do things like this to him with no problem.
Don't listen to him though. You know he'll make his way out and be back to his mischief per normal. It's hard to get the kids to behave when they have such a bad role model creeping around the home!
An Elf With Game
This elf clearly got bored of all the Christmas shenanigans and pranking ad starting putting his energy towards something else. She looks like Belle from Beauty and the Beast, so this elf better watch his back if the Beast is around. We don't think he'd be very happy with this situation.
We hope that car shifts into fifth gear because he's going to need it. How did this happen, anyway??
Mission Impossible Elf
It appears as though this elf has gotten himself into a serious situation. Imagine coming home to see a full-blown miniature action sequence going on in your living room. We wish we had some background information to learn what's actually going on here.
This is definitely the most extreme Elf on the list. He must have been watching Tom Cruise movies with the family before they hit the hay that night.
Rave Elf
This elf spends his days listening to electronic music and going to festivals. He's always dancing by himself in the dark and playing his music way too loud. After he heard house music for the first time, he gave up on Christmas music and was reborn as a PLUR warrior.
This guy knows how to have fun when the family isn't watching. Then, when they appear, he acts like nothing happened. But we know better.
