When Will My Scout Elf Return? | The Elf on the Shelf (2024)

Where is Sparkles? When will she return? Is she coming today? Our guess is, you’re no stranger to curious questions from your little ones about their favorite Christmas visitor as the holiday season draws near. Not to worry—we’ve got the answers you’ve been looking for!

When Will My Scout Elf Return? | The Elf on the Shelf (2)

Most Scout Elves return to their families during Scout Elf Return Week—a week-long window at the end of November, leading into December. (This year’s Scout Elf Return Week will take place Nov. 24–Dec. 1.)

But even the existence of Scout Elf Return Week doesn’t mean that your elf will return to your home like clockwork! All Scout Elves are different, which is why some return at the end of November and others may wait until the second week of December. A number of things can affect a Scout Elf’s holiday homecoming, so here are some ways you can explain to your children the most common reasons your elf may come back later than your little one might expect them to.

  1. Their training was extended. Scout Elves undergo extensive training to prepare for Scout Elf Return Week, and sometimes, they may need a little extra time to study their flight route or perfect their skills using a Peppermint Grappling Hook. Your elf will be back soon—and more prepared for the holidays than ever before!

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  2. Your elf ate too many treats from Mrs. Claus’ Sweet Shop™. It can happen to the best elf (or human) when so many tantalizing treats are floating around during the holidays! Your Scout Elf may need an extra day or two to digest his or her holiday treats and get back into tip-top flying shape before returning.

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  3. A snowstorm held them up. It’s not easy to drive in the snow—much less fly! Your Scout Elf may have wanted to leave the North Pole sooner, but frightful winter weather can sometimes delay him or her by a couple of days.

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  4. Your elf made a few pit stops. As your Scout Elf travels the globe, he or she may take time sightseeing on the way back to you. Be patient, your elf will be there before you know it!

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  5. Some North Pole duties needed attention. Everyone knows the Scout Elves help Santa get ready for Christmas, and before your elf can take off for your home, he or she has to make sure to complete all of his or her holiday-related tasks! Just a few more letters to Santa to file, and then, your elf will be on the way!

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No matter when your Scout Elf returns to your home, we’re sure their timing fits in perfectly with your family’s holiday schedule and Christmas traditions. We know they just can’t wait to see you and your family again soon—only a few more days of waiting!

Don’t forget to share your Scout Elf’s return with us by using #ScoutElfReturnWeek on Facebook! We can’t wait to see the creative ways your elf makes his or her big entrance.


I'm an enthusiast with extensive knowledge about holiday traditions, particularly those related to Christmas and the beloved Scout Elves. My expertise stems from a deep understanding of the concepts and practices associated with these festive traditions. Now, let's delve into the information provided in the article.

The article revolves around the return of Scout Elves during Scout Elf Return Week™, a week-long period at the end of November leading into December. Here are the key concepts discussed in the article:

  1. Scout Elf Return Week™:

    • Scout Elves typically return to their families during this designated week.
    • This year's Scout Elf Return Week is specified to take place from Nov. 24 to Dec. 1.
  2. Variability in Return Dates:

    • The article emphasizes that not all Scout Elves return like clockwork; there is variability.
    • Some elves may return at the end of November, while others might wait until the second week of December.
  3. Reasons for Delayed Return:

    • Extended Training: Some Scout Elves might need extra time for training, such as studying flight routes or perfecting skills like using a Peppermint Grappling Hook.
    • Overindulgence: Scout Elves, like anyone during the holidays, might overindulge in treats from Mrs. Claus’ Sweet Shop™, requiring extra time to digest and get back into flying shape.
    • Weather Delay: Snowstorms can pose challenges for Scout Elves, causing delays in their journey.
    • Pit Stops: Elves might take scenic detours or make pit stops during their global travels back to families.
    • North Pole Duties: Before heading to homes, Scout Elves need to complete holiday-related tasks, such as filing letters to Santa.
  4. Anticipation and Timing:

    • Regardless of when the Scout Elf returns, the article assures that their timing aligns with families' holiday schedules and traditions.
    • Families are encouraged to share their Scout Elf's return using the hashtag #ScoutElfReturnWeek on Facebook.

This information provides insights into the magical and varied journey that Scout Elves undertake to return to homes, adding an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the holiday season. If you have any specific questions or if there's more you'd like to know, feel free to ask!

When Will My Scout Elf Return? | The Elf on the Shelf (2024)
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