The Elf on the Shelf typically comes to homes between November 24 and December 1, during what is known as "Scout Elf Return Week." This marks the time when Santa's scout elves leave the North Pole to stay in families' houses until Christmas. December 1 is a popular date for the elf's arrival as it allows them to have a whole month of fun leading up to Christmas. The elf usually departs on Christmas Eve to return to the North Pole with Santa Claus.