By now, millions of families across the globe, including right here in Canada, have embraced the magic of The Elf on the Shelf® tradition. But what about the Elf Pets®, Santa’s other magical friends who are cuddly, loyal, and full of festive cheer?
If you’ve recently adopted an Elf Pet, or you’re thinking about welcoming one into your home this holiday season, you may have a few questions. Do Elf Pets fly to the North Pole? Are kids allowed to touch them? What makes them different from Scout Elves?
Here’s everything your family needs to know about Elf Pets.
Can I touch my Elf Pets?
Yes, absolutely! Unlike Scout Elves, Elf Pets are meant to be held, hugged and snuggled. In fact, their Christmas magic grows stronger the more love and affection they receive.
Whether your child cuddles their Elf Pets while watching holiday movies, brings it along on a snowy walk, or tucks it into bed at night, that connection helps Santa’s sleigh soar across the skies on Christmas Eve.
Do Elf Pets fly to the North Pole each night?
Nope! While Scout Elves head back to the North Pole each night, Elf Pets® stay with your child all season long. Their job is to soak up the kindness, joy, and Christmas spirit shared at home and store it until Santa needs it most.
That’s why you’ll often see them tagging along for family dinners, craft time, or cozy evenings by the fire.
Do Elf Pets® move around the house like Scout Elves?
Not in the same way as Scout Elves. Elf Pets don’t play hide-and-seek or stage surprise antics, but they do love to stay close by. They are always ready to join in whatever your child is doing.
Whether you’re decorating the Christmas tree, heading to the local Christmas market, or baking cookies for Santa, your Elf Pets is the perfect holiday companion.
Do Elf Pets take part in Elf Scout ideas?
Definitely! While Scout Elves often take the lead with their cheeky morning set-ups, Elf Pets frequently make cameo appearances.
You might find your Elf Pets:
- Snuggled beside your Scout Elf during a baking scene
- Helping out with a paper snowflake display
- Resting in a festive sleigh or beside a letter to Santa
And once your child wakes up, they’re welcome to carry, cuddle and play with their Elf Pets all day long.
Do Elf Pets® Stay All Year or Leave After Christmas?
That’s entirely up to your family. Scout Elves typically return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve, but many families in Canada choose to keep their Elf Pets year-round.
Some kids enjoy having their Elf Pets around for comfort, bedtime cuddles or playtime, even after the lights and tinsel are packed away. Others tuck them into a special spot after Christmas and bring them out again each December as part of their family tradition.