25+ Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas to Add Some Christmas Cheer

If you’re looking to bring a little extra laughter to your holiday season, these funny Elf on the Shelf ideas are just what you need.

From fishing in the sink to pulling off some cheeky pranks, these setups are easy to create and guaranteed to get some giggles from the whole family.

Let’s dive into these hilarious Elf on the Shelf antics that will keep everyone smiling throughout the season!

1 – Elf Goes Fishing

An Elf on the Shelf is sitting in a small clear container floating in a sink filled with water. The elf is holding two small sticks like oars, as if rowing a boat. A toy shark swims nearby, adding a sense of playful danger to the scene.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** mamihulala

Why not let your elf enjoy a little fishing trip?

Set up your elf in a sink or a tub with some toy fish and a tiny fishing rod.

This idea is quick, easy, and sure to bring a smile to your kids’ faces when they discover their elf on a mini fishing adventure.

It’s the perfect way to add a splash of fun to the morning routine!

2 – Throne Room Elf

A bathroom is humorously decorated with Christmas lights around the toilet, which is being presented as a "throne." A sign on the door reads, "Your Throne Room Awaits You!!" Inside, an Elf on the Shelf is sitting on the counter next to a crown and surrounded by festive decor.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** truffles_the_elf

Turn the bathroom into the elf’s royal throne room!

Add some festive lights around the toilet and a crown to top it off.

A sign that says “Your Throne Room Awaits You” will make this scene even funnier.

It’s a lighthearted way to make your kids laugh during their daily routine.

3 – Money-Doubling Elves

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls are sitting on the floor with scissors in their hands, surrounded by cut-up paper money. Behind them, a sign reads "DOUBLED YOUR MONEY" in colorful letters. The scene is playful, as if the elves have been up to some mischievous money-making antics.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** chippy_and_tinsel

Ever wondered if elves have magical money skills?

Set up your elves with some halfed play money and scissors, and add a sign saying, “Doubled Your Money.”

It’s a fun and cheeky way to get a giggle out of the kids as they see the “results” of the elves’ magic tricks.

4 – Elf’s Last Meal

A humorous scene where chicken bones have been arranged in the shape of an Elf on the Shelf on a plate, with ketchup used to draw a face and details. The elf’s hat is placed on top of the bones, and a note beside the plate reads, "The Elf was delicious! Had the cookies for dessert. Thanks! Santa."
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** kfmza

Give your elf a dramatic twist with this hilarious setup!

Arrange chicken bones and ketchup to look like your elf has had a very unfortunate dinner.

Leave a note from Santa saying, “The elf was delicious!” It’s a funny and unexpected way to surprise your kids at the dinner table.

5 – Potty Humor Elf

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls are sitting on rolls of toilet paper that have been decorated to look like a snowman and a holiday scene. One elf has a snowman hat made of a toilet paper roll, and the other has written "Have Yourself a Potty Little Christmas" on the paper. The scene is playful and creative, using everyday items for festive fun.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** elfontheshelf_thesilvacrew

Bring some potty humor to your elf’s antics!

Wrap toilet paper around your elf, adding funny messages like “Jingle Bells, Your Poop Smells” on the rolls.

It’s silly, easy, and sure to be a hit with kids who enjoy a little bathroom humor.

6 – Eye-Pad Prank

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls are sitting beside a notepad that has googly eyes attached to it. Behind them is a lightbox sign that reads "We got you an EYEPAD!"
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** chippy_and_tinsel

Did your kids ask for an iPad this year?

Have your elves gift them with a cheeky “Eye-Pad” instead!

Use a notepad and stick googly eyes all over it.

This idea is sure to bring laughs and set the tone for more fun surprises to come.

7 – Pizza Party Elf

An Elf on the Shelf dressed in a slice of pizza costume sits on a red and white checkered cloth, with a toy pizza slice and a Domino's gift card next to it.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** the_elf_eddie

What’s better than pizza?

Dress your elf up as a slice of pizza and set up a mini pizza party scene.

Add a tiny pizza box or a slice next to your elf for a fun and tasty surprise.

This setup is easy and perfect for a quick laugh when the kids spot their elf indulging in some cheesy goodness.

8 – Golfing Elf

An Elf on the Shelf is standing on a highchair tray, holding a candy cane as a golf club, preparing to hit small marshmallows. A small sign beside the elf reads "Off for a round of golf."
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** catiapaice

Fore! Get your elf ready for a round of golf with this simple and funny idea.

Use a candy cane as the golf club and set up a mini golf course on a high chair or table.

It’s a playful way to keep the elf’s antics fresh and entertaining for your kids.

9 – AA Meeting Elf

An Elf on the Shelf is seated on a small round table, surrounded by AA batteries arranged in a circle. A sign in front of the elf reads "AA Meeting."
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** divachew

Give your elf a clever twist with this battery-themed AA meeting.

Set up your elf with a group of batteries and a sign that says “AA Meeting.”

It’s a humorous take on a serious topic that’s sure to make the grown-ups laugh, while still being lighthearted enough for the kids to enjoy.

10 – Wrapped Christmas Tree Elf

An Elf on the Shelf is perched on top of a large, conical object wrapped in brown paper and decorated with large eyes and a smiling face, resembling a whimsical Christmas tree.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** truffles_the_elf

Transform your Christmas tree into a giant surprise with this hilarious idea!

Wrap your tree in brown paper, add some big googly eyes, and place your elf on top as the star.

The kids will be in stitches when they see the tree all “wrapped up.”

It’s a fun twist on the usual tree decor and sure to be a memorable sight!

11 – Elf Karaoke Night

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls are sitting on the floor, facing a series of energy drink cans with googly eyes on them. A lightbox nearby reads "YOUNG VOICES RULE," and the elves are looking at what seems to be song lyrics on sheets of paper.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** chippy_and_tinsel

Turn your elf’s night into a concert with this karaoke-themed setup!

Use soda cans to create an audience and have your elf sing their heart out.

A cute sign and some printed lyrics complete the scene.

It’s a fun way to show off your elf’s hidden talents and get everyone in the holiday spirit.

12 – Thin Ice Elf Rescue

One Elf on the Shelf is in a precarious position, seemingly pulling another elf out of a sink filled with snow, with a sign that reads "CAUTION: THIN ICE!!!" beside them.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** taylored_elf

Bring some winter drama into your bathroom with this daring elf rescue!

Set your elf on “thin ice” (a snowy sink), with another elf heroically saving the day.

This playful scene will have your kids on the edge of their seats.

It’s a chilly, thrilling adventure that’s easy to create with some fake snow or cotton balls.

13 – Toilet Paper Roll Singers

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls are sitting on stacks of toilet paper rolls that have been humorously decorated with holiday-themed poop jokes, such as "Have yourself a poopy little Christmas" and "Jingle Bells, your poop smells."
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** elfontheshelf_cheeky

Get your elves into the holiday spirit with a musical number!

Wrap toilet paper rolls around your elves and decorate them with funny lyrics.

It’s a goofy, lighthearted setup that’s sure to bring giggles.

Perfect for a quick and easy laugh in the bathroom!

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14 – Bubble Bath in a Crockpot

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls are sitting in a crockpot surrounded by cotton balls, simulating a hot tub. A handwritten note in front reads, "Ahhh... nice and bubbly! Remember: Be Good, we are watching!!! You have been WASHED!!!"
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** wendipbulkley

Who says elves can’t enjoy a spa day?

Fill a crockpot with cotton balls for bubbles and let your elves soak in their “luxurious” bath.

A cute note reminds the kids to behave, adding a playful twist.

It’s a silly and fun way to remind everyone that even elves need a little R&R.

15 – Candy Cane Jail

An Elf on the Shelf doll is peeking out from behind candy cane bars in a makeshift "Elf Jail" made out of a small cardboard box, with the words "ELF JAIL" written on the box.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** christmaself2019

Uh-oh, looks like the elf is in trouble!

Create a mini jail using candy canes and a small box to keep your elf behind bars.

This cheeky setup is a fun way to show that even Santa’s helpers can get up to mischief.

It’s a sweet twist that the kids will get a kick out of.

16 – Elf Room Cleaning Reminder

A note reads "Please Clean Your Room!! Tried to get in there and got hurt. Ouch! Love, David." An Elf on the Shelf is sitting beside the note, wrapped in bandages with a sad expression, conveying that the elf got injured trying to navigate through a messy room.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** christmaself2019

Encourage your kids to clean their room with this clever elf setup!

Bandage up your elf and leave a note explaining that they got hurt trying to navigate the mess.

It’s a funny, gentle reminder that’s sure to get the message across.

Plus, it adds a bit of humor to the daily chores!

17 – Shoe Shining Elf

An Elf on the Shelf is standing proudly with two shoes covered in aluminum foil. A small note in front reads, "I shined your shoes for you. Love, Elfie," showing the elf’s attempt at shoe polishing.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** kfmza

Start the day with a smile by having your elf “shine” your kids’ shoes.

Wrap the shoes in tin foil and place the elf proudly beside them.

It’s a simple yet hilarious setup that adds a bit of elf magic to your morning routine.

Your kids will be delighted by the elf’s helpfulness—or maybe they’ll just laugh at the shiny shoes!

18 – Lemonade Stand Elf

One Elf on the Shelf is standing behind a small, yellow lemonade stand labeled "Lemonade for Sale," while another elf, facing the stand, appears to be waiting to buy lemonade. Several small cups of lemonade are lined up on the counter.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** therobertsfamilyelves

Set up a mini lemonade stand for your elf to run!

Use a small box and some craft supplies to create a cute stand, complete with tiny cups of “lemonade.”

It’s a sweet and simple idea that adds a summery twist to the holiday season.

The kids will love this playful business venture from their elf!

19 – Elf Juice Challenge

An elf stands facing a sign that reads, "Are you brave enough to taste and see…is it Apple Juice or Elf Pee?" Below the sign are three small glasses filled with yellow liquid, suggesting a playful and mischievous taste test challenge.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** advent.elf

Turn up the fun with an elf juice challenge!

Place a sign daring your family to taste and guess if it’s apple juice or “elf pee.”

It’s a simple setup that will have everyone giggling and testing their bravery.

Just make sure the cups are labeled—so there’s no mix-up!

20 – Elf Bathroom Mishap

An Elf on the Shelf is sitting on a bathroom sink, facing away with chocolate drips leading down from the counter to the sink, mimicking the elf having an "accident" in the sink.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** christmaself2019

Catch your elf in a bit of a messy situation in the bathroom!

Position your elf as if it’s had a little accident, using chocolate syrup for a hilarious effect.

It’s a funny and slightly naughty idea that’s sure to get some laughs.

Perfect for a light-hearted start to the day.

21 – Elf Beauty Struggles

An Elf on the Shelf stands in front of a bathroom mirror with the message "How does your mom do this?" written on it in marker.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** christmaself2019

Show your elf trying to get glammed up with some mascara and false lashes.

Add a note on the mirror saying, “How does your mom do this?” for an extra laugh.

This setup is all about the relatable beauty struggle, making it a perfect morning surprise for everyone in the house.

22 – Smoking Toilet Elf

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls sit on top of a toilet, which has been decorated to look like it’s smoking, complete with toilet paper eyes and a paper towel tube as a "cigarette."
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** mrsnowell

Create a quirky scene with your elf declaring, “Oh no! The toilet is smoking!”

Use toilet paper rolls to make the toilet look like it’s puffing smoke.

It’s a quick and funny setup that will leave everyone in stitches.

23 – Chip Ironing Elf

An Elf on the Shelf sits beside an iron and a small pile of potato chips, with a sign that reads, "I ironed your chips cause they were all crinkled. Love, Elfie."
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** kfmza

Ever seen an elf ironing chips? Now you can!

Set up your elf with an iron and a note explaining they were just trying to smooth out some crinkles.

This idea is a funny twist on household chores, sure to amuse the whole family.

24 – Toilet Ice Fishing Elf

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls are "ice fishing" in a toilet, with a small hole in the toilet paper cover and Goldfish crackers scattered around.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** mrsnowell

Your elf has gone ice fishing…in the toilet!

Set up this comical scene with a tiny hole, fishing line, and maybe a couple of goldfish crackers for extra effect.

It’s a cheeky and hilarious way to bring some bathroom humor into the mix.

25 – Flossing Elves

Two Elf on the Shelf dolls sit beside a sign that reads, "Is this how you do the floss?" with the dolls wrapped in dental floss.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** the.zukeeper

These elves are trying to figure out how to floss—literally!

Wrap some floss around their little arms and set them up with a chalkboard sign that says, “Is this how you do the floss?”

It’s a playful mix of dental hygiene and dance craze humor.

26 – Elf and Barbie’s Joyride

An Elf on the Shelf is driving a pink convertible toy car with a Barbie doll as the passenger, both with their hands raised as if enjoying a fun ride.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas — ***Photo Credit:*** tiedo18

Take your elf on a joyride with Barbie in her convertible.

It’s a simple but fun setup that suggests the elves are enjoying a little break.

This idea is perfect for a laugh and adds a bit of playful mischief to your elf’s adventures.

Wrapping Up Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas

These funny Elf on the Shelf ideas that are sure to bring joy and laughter to your home this holiday season!

Whether your elf is up to some bathroom humor, getting into mischief, or just enjoying a little downtime, these setups are all about keeping the fun light and festive.

So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the smiles and giggles as your elf spreads holiday cheer.

Happy elfing!

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