Scout Elf Return Week® is a weeklong celebration that happens every year from Nov. 24 – Dec. 1. Most families welcome their Elf on the Shelf® back during this time. However, your Elf on the Shelf may return at a different time. Many things can affect your elves' return home from the North Pole. They may not be in the first groups that depart or have to wait for bad weather to pass. Most importantly, all of the Scout Elves want this Christmas (like every Christmas) to be the very best, so they may still be working extra hard and can’t leave yet.

The best thing about the Elves on the Shelves coming back is seeing all the creative elf ideas they come up with to surprise us every day. One great elf idea that we’ve seen is this Frozen movie-themed Elf on the Shelf set-up with a small card asking “Do you want to build a s’mores [snow] man?” This would be even better paired with one of our small, portable City Bonfires fire pits. 

We’re pretty sure the Elf on the Shelf at Jen Wright’s home (pic above) agrees. He knows that City Bonfires are perfect for making s’mores because they are made with non-toxic, food-grade soy wax and they don’t require the time and materials needed to make a large bonfire. City Bonfires are especially great for kids since their small size means less scary flames and they can easily be extinguished by putting the lid back on. Jen’s elf even surprised her friend Frank with a date night in the back yard with a City Bonfires and S’Mores Kit. How cute is that?

This is one of the most common questions about the Elf on the Shelf. There are many reasons why the Elf on the Shelf doesn’t move or return. Scout Elves are actually more similar to humans than you may think. Here are a few reasons why your elf may not move, or return, as expected.

My Elf on the Shelf Didn’t Move

- He needed an extra-long nap to make up for all their hard work at Santa’s shop.

- Someone touched your Elf on the Shelf.

- This is one of your elf’s favorite surprises and he isn’t ready to leave yet.

My Elf on the Shelf Didn’t Return

- He took a mini vacation to rest up for Christmas Eve and Christmas.

- A snow storm prevented your Elf from returning from the North Pole on time.

- Maybe your Elf got sick with the flu or COVID-19? They can get sick, just like us.

We love seeing your photos and hearing about more tips, tricks, and ideas for the Elf on the Shelf! So, don’t forget to share them with us on social media by tagging us (@citybonfires) on Instagram and Facebook!