Perhaps your child has spotted a Scout Elf at a friend’s house, or you’ve seen these cheerful North Pole visitors appearing across social media and wondered how the magic begins. The good news is that starting your own The Elf on the Shelf® tradition in the UK is simpler than you might think.
Since 2005, families around the world have welcomed Santa’s official Scout Elves into their homes, sharing the excitement of a little Christmas visitor who brings imagination, laughter and magical family moments throughout the festive season.
Whether you’re adopting your first Scout Elf or introducing the tradition to another family member, here’s how to get started, find an official adoption centre and welcome your new North Pole friend into your home.
1. Visit an Official Elf Adoption Centre in the UK
Each festive season, participating UK retailers welcome Santa’s official Scout Elves, giving families a chance to discover the tradition and choose a magical new Christmas visitor.
Use our official UK adoption centre finder to look for participating shops near you. Product selection and availability can vary, so it’s worth contacting the retailer before setting off.
Look for the official The Elf on the Shelf keepsake box, storybook and North Pole Seal of Approval. They’re part of what makes adopting a genuine Scout Elf such a special first step into the tradition.
What comes in an official The Elf on the Shelf box?
- An official Scout Elf
- The illustrated Christmas tradition storybook
- A keepsake adoption box
- An official adoption certificate
2. Adopt Your Scout Elf Online
Prefer to do your Christmas shopping from the comfort of your sofa? You can adopt an official Scout Elf through Santa’s official UK online store .
The official The Elf on the Shelf Christmas Tradition box set is where many families begin. Depending on the available options, you can choose a boy or girl Scout Elf and explore the different elves ready to join your family.
Once you’ve chosen your new North Pole friend, you can discover extra ways to bring the Christmas story to life.
The Claus Couture Collection® includes outfits for festive adventures, while Elf Pets® friends, including the Reindeer, Arctic Fox and Saint Bernard, introduce more of Santa’s magical North Pole family.
You don’t need to adopt every character or accessory to begin. The original Scout Elf box set is everything you need to start the tradition.
3. Add The Elf on the Shelf to Your Christmas Wish List
For children who love surprises, another magical way to introduce the tradition is to add The Elf on the Shelf to their Christmas wish list.
Your child could write a letter to Father Christmas, include a drawing of their dream Scout Elf or simply share how excited they are to welcome a North Pole visitor.
If you’re planning to send a letter through Royal Mail’s seasonal Santa service, remember to check the current year’s posting information and deadline.
When your Scout Elf arrives, reading the storybook together can become part of the surprise and the beginning of a Christmas tradition your family looks forward to each year.
Every family has its own Christmas traditions. For some, the magic begins with a storybook, a new North Pole friend and a name chosen together.
What to Do Once You Adopt a Scout Elf
Once your Scout Elf arrives, the magic truly begins. There’s no need to plan an elaborate first day. A little storytime, a special name and a welcoming spot in your home are enough to get started.
If this is your family’s first year with The Elf on the Shelf, begin with these three simple steps.
Read the story together
Open the illustrated storybook and discover who your Scout Elf is, why they’ve come to visit and what makes their North Pole mission so special.
Choose a magical name
Let everyone suggest a favourite name for your new friend. Once your Scout Elf receives their name, their Christmas magic is activated.
Register your Scout Elf
Visit the official UK Elf Registry to record your Scout Elf’s name and celebrate their adoption with personalised North Pole documents.
When Does The Elf on the Shelf Arrive in the UK?
Many families welcome their Scout Elves during Scout Elf Return Week™ , which runs from 24 November to 1 December.
This is when Santa’s Scout Elves begin arriving at homes around the world, ready to bring Christmas cheer to the festive season.
If you’re adopting your first Scout Elf, your family can choose a day that works for you. Some families begin at the end of November, while others introduce their new visitor during December.
Getting ready for your Scout Elf’s arrival
Keep your adoption box and storybook ready for your Elf’s first visit. A spot beside the Christmas tree, a North Pole welcome note or a simple festive breakfast can make the day feel extra special.
Need inspiration? Discover our official Elf Ideas gallery , filled with simple activities, cheerful surprises and creative ways to welcome your Scout Elf.
Keeping the Christmas Magic Alive
Once your Scout Elf has been named, their North Pole magic allows them to fly back to Santa each night and return before morning, ready to be discovered in a different spot.
It’s this daily surprise that makes the tradition so memorable. Your Scout Elf brings Christmas cheer, imagination and a little excitement to the family’s December mornings.
Children should avoid touching their Scout Elf, as human hands can affect their Christmas magic. But if an accidental touch happens, there’s no need for a family emergency at the North Pole!
A little cinnamon sprinkled nearby, a heartfelt note to Father Christmas or a favourite Christmas carol are some of Santa’s familiar ways to help restore the magic.
Read our guide to what happens if a Scout Elf is accidentally touched for more reassurance and North Pole tips.
Ready to Welcome a Little North Pole Magic?
From choosing your family’s Scout Elf to reading the first storybook together, every Christmas tradition begins with a special moment.
Discover an official Scout Elf, find a participating UK retailer or explore ideas for your family’s first magical December.