If you have never heard of the famous “Elf on the Shelf,” you miss out on major Christmas fun! I know the holiday season can seem so full of things to do that it may seem challenging to do one more thing. However, these different activities listed below are easy ways to add some elf scavenger hunt ideas for Christmas magic to your children’s holiday season.
9 Awesome Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt Ideas
Since you’re here and on the hunt for Christmas magic, we have lots of great scavenger hunt clues to help you find those moments that will make memories for years to come.
1. A Riddle is Fun, But Not Just for One!
I love free Elf on the Shelf printables even more! This particular scavenger hunt was super easy to find and is on Pinterest. What your children find in the end is entirely up to you! These elf scavenger hunt clues are easy to read up until the very last clue.
2. Candy Canes Scavenger Hunt is as Sweet as it Sounds!
Directly from the Each Coast Mommy is this free printable Elf scavenger hunt clues! All you need to do for this hunt is to add in, click on the free printables (free is always better!), fill in the blanks for your clues, and hide the candy canes. This activity is so much fun with your kids; they will enjoy the interactive activity as much as you!
3. The Encrypted Elf Message
Cracking the code is always so much fun! I love this free printable among the many Christmas scavenger hunts. One great thing about this free printable is that these scavenger hunt clues practice letter and shape recognition.
4. Indoor Scavenger Hunt
You will love this indoor scavenger hunt printable! When the weather is frightful, do an inside activity your kids will enjoy. One thing that is very helpful about this Christmas scavenger hunt is that all of the items needed on this hunt are easily found around the home. Each item leads to the next clue!
5. Elf Treasure Hunt
While all of the cards aren’t necessarily geared toward being a scavenger hunt, these cute elf themed riddles are a great idea! Whether your kids or younger, they all can enjoy cracking the clues this treasure hunt has to offer. Kids find joy in things that you can do as a family, so many this a family activity that has a great activity at the end of the final clue.
6. Christmas Scavenger Hunt Clues
If you want a printable of a great Christmas scavenger hunt, look no further than this one from Homeschoolof1. This Free printable will certainly get your whole family in the holiday spirit.
7. Christmas Scavenger Hunt Outdoors
When it comes to printables, there are so many to choose from! I love this one from the official Elf on the Shelf website. Send your little scout elves on an outdoor hunt to search for all kinds of decorations. Older and younger children will enjoy searching for a Christmas tree, icicles, wreaths, lights, and more!
8. A Santa Scavenger Hunt
Okay, I know this isn’t an “elf-themed” scavenger hunt. However, it is still some fun straight from the North Pole. Your kids will love doing this hunt for Christmas morning or, in the days leading up to it.
9. Scavenger Hunt for Senses
This elf-on-the-shelf scavenger hunt is the perfect addition to family drives around town looking at Christmas lights. This free printable elf activity is also from the Elf on the Shelf official website. Also, if you’re looking for other elf-themed hunting ideas, there is more about where this came from on the site.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re trying to figure out where to hide your elf, or getting a friend together for the holidays, don’t forget to try at least one of these awesome scavenger hunts on this list! Whether you have older or younger children, these scavenger hunts will bring the whole family together one clue at a time! So take advantage of the free printables and Elf on the Shelf ideas to enjoy with your family this Christmas!
I would like to get these to print
Thank you