Move over, Elf on the Shelf - there's a new holiday tradition spreading magic through neighborhoods this Christmas season! "You've Been Elf'd" is a delightful community game that turns neighbors into secret elves, spreading Christmas cheer one doorstep at a time.

Download your free You’ve Been Elf’d resources here.

What is "Elf'ing"?

Think of it as Santa's secret neighborhood mission. Similar to Halloween's "You've Been Boo'd," this festive activity involves secretly delivering Christmas-themed treats and decorations to your neighbors' doorsteps. It creates a ripple effect of giving that transforms your neighborhood into a real-life North Pole workshop of kindness!

How to Play "You've Been Elf'd"

1. Create Your Elf Kit

Assemble a festive package that might include:

• Christmas ornaments

• Hot cocoa mix packets

• Holiday-scented candles

• Christmas cookie cutters

• Festive socks

• Holiday window clings

• Christmas craft supplies

• Battery-operated tea lights

• Candy canes

• Holiday baking supplies

• Small gift tags or cards

• Christmas stickers

2. Write Your Elf Note

Include this magical message explaining the game:

"Twas weeks before Christmas, when all through the street, A secret elf left you this holiday treat! The spirit of giving is now yours to share, Please Elf two more neighbors to show that you care! Within three days' time, this fun must pass on, To keep Christmas magic spreading until dawn! Display this sign proudly upon your front door, So elves know you've been visited and skip you once more! Merry Christmas from your Secret Elf! 🎄"

3. Stealth Delivery

Channel your inner elf with these delivery tips:

• Choose delivery times when neighbors might be home but not watching

• Wear jingle bells? Absolutely not! Stealth is key

• Consider early evening deliveries when holiday lights provide some cover

• Have a getaway plan - those reindeer won't wait forever!

4. Keep the Magic Going

Include these essential items in your kit:

• "We've Been Elf'd!" door sign

• Instructions for continuing the tradition

• List of suggested items for future Elf Kits

• Extra copies of the Elf note

Making Your Elf Kit Special

Theme Ideas for Elf Kits:

1. Baker's Delight

   • Holiday cookie cutters

   • Festive sprinkles

   • Christmas recipe cards

   • Red and green mixing spoons

2. Cozy Christmas

   • Holiday-themed mug

   • Hot cocoa packets

   • Mini marshmallows

   • Peppermint stirring sticks

3. Deck the Halls

   • Christmas ornaments

   • Battery-operated string lights

   • Window clings

   • Tinsel garland

4. Craft Corner

   • Christmas craft supplies

   • Holiday stickers

   • Blank gift tags

   • Red and green ribbons

Download your free You’ve Been Elf’d resources here.

Tips for Successful Elf'ing

1. Timing is Everything

   • Start in early December to give the game time to spread

   • Allow enough time before Christmas for multiple rounds

   • Consider weekend deliveries when more families are home

2. Safety First

   • Keep all food items store-bought and sealed

   • Include ingredient lists for allergy awareness

   • Ensure decorations are child and pet-friendly

   • Use battery-operated lights instead of candles

3. Spread the Joy

   • Consider varying kit contents for different neighbors

   • Include both fun and practical items

   • Add personal touches like hand-written cards

   • Remember households without children

4. Stay Organized

   • Keep track of houses displaying "We've Been Elf'd!" signs

   • Coordinate with a few neighbors to start in different areas

   • Have backup kits ready for quick assembly

   • Save supplies during post-holiday sales for next year

Why Elf'ing Works

This tradition brings multiple benefits to your community:

• Creates excitement leading up to Christmas

• Encourages neighborly connections

• Teaches children about giving

• Builds community spirit

• Makes the holiday season more interactive

• Creates lasting memories

• Spreads joy beyond immediate family

Download your free You’ve Been Elf’d resources here.

Special Considerations

• Apartment/Condo Dwellers: Modify deliveries to work with your building's security and layout

• Different Celebrations: Include some winter-themed items for inclusive giving

• Budget Conscious: Focus on small, thoughtful items rather than expensive gifts

• Weather Issues: Weatherproof your packages for snow or rain

Conclusion

"You've Been Elf'd" is more than just a game - it's a way to create magical Christmas memories and strengthen community bonds. In a world where we often feel disconnected, this tradition brings back the joy of giving and the excitement of mystery that makes Christmas special.

Ready to start spreading some Christmas magic in your neighborhood? Grab your elf hat (figuratively, remember - stealth is key!), gather your supplies, and get ready to spark a chain reaction of holiday cheer that will make this Christmas unforgettable!

Remember, the true gift isn't in the treats or decorations - it's in the connections we build and the joy we share. Happy Elf'ing! 🎄✨

Pro Tips:

• Take photos of your Elf Kits to share on social media (after delivery!)

• Create a neighborhood hashtag like #ElfdInEastwood

• Keep a few extra kits ready for last-minute elfing

• Consider coordinating with local community groups to spread the tradition