As the festive season winds down after Christmas day and stockings are emptied, many families wonder: when does our Scout Elf say goodbye? 

According to the official storybook The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition, Scout Elves return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve, 24 December. After a month of festive fun, magical hide-and-seek and spreading cheer around your home, your elf must head back to the North Pole to help Santa get ready for next year. 

But sometimes, a Scout Elf might be granted special permission to stay just a little longer.

Four scout elves sitting on a green mantle with Christmas tree next to them

Why Might a Scout Elf Stay Past Christmas Eve? 

1. Your family was away during December 
If your household was travelling or had a late start to the season, Santa may allow your Scout Elf to stay a bit longer, just enough time to finish their mission of keeping an eye on good behaviour and spreading Christmas magic. 

2. Your children asked Santa for an extra day 
Sometimes children write heartfelt letters asking for their Scout Elf to stay and enjoy Christmas Day with the family. If Santa agrees, your elf might remain one more morning to watch the unwrapping of presents and say a proper goodbye. 

3. Your elf arrived later than usual 
If your elf had a delayed arrival at the start of December, Father Christmas may give them extra days to catch up on their time with your family before returning north. 

Girl smiling at Elf on the Shelf resting on a shelf with googly eyes.

Saying Goodbye to Your Elf 

It’s not always easy to say farewell to a beloved Scout Elf, especially for young children who’ve grown used to their daily visits. But part of the magic lies in knowing your elf will return next Christmas, ready for new adventures and surprises. 

Encourage little ones to write a goodbye note, leave a tiny treat for their elf, or share a favourite memory from the month. These small gestures help children process the transition while keeping the belief and wonder alive. 

If your little ones are sad to see their Scout Elf head back, you can tell them why your elf had to return to the North Pole. 

Are your little ones sad their elf headed back? Find out why your elf had to return to the North Pole!