If you’re anything like me, you LOVE little holiday traditions that bring big smiles—and this one is a favorite in our home! The “You’ve Been Elfed” printable game is such a fun way to surprise neighbors, friends, or even coworkers with small gifts, sweet notes, and a whole lot of holiday cheer.
And the best part? It’s easy, magical, and totally FREE with our printable kit!
What Is “You’ve Been Elfed”?
You may be wondering what is “You’ve Been ELfed?” Think of it like a Secret Santa surprise—but with a twist! You anonymously drop off a small gift and a printable poem at someone’s door. In return, they pass the fun along to two more people. It’s like a cheerful chain reaction of kindness!
Also called You’ve Been Jingled or You’ve Been Tinsled, this tradition works in neighborhoods, classrooms, offices, and even apartment complexes.
Why We Love This Tradition
Elfing gives kids a chance to give without expecting anything in return. It brings a little magic back to the season and gets the whole family involved.
It’s also a great conversation starter with your kids:
- “How do small acts of kindness make a big difference?”
- “Why do you think it feels good to surprise someone?”
- “What would you like to find if you were elfed?”
How to Play: Step-by-Step Elfing Instructions
Step 1: Print your free “You’ve Been Elfed” kit
You’ll find everything you need below—including a sign and poem!
Step 2: Create a small surprise package
Fill a bag or basket with goodies (see ideas below!) and attach the printable.
Step 3: Deliver it secretly
Pick a time when no one’s watching (or make it a fun mission for your kids!). Ring the bell and run—it’s like happy holiday doorbell ditching!
Step 4: Keep it going!
The person you elfed hangs the included “We’ve Been Elfed” sign on their door so others know they’ve already been visited. Then they choose two more people to elf!
Pro tip: Start with 2-3 houses to help it take off, in case someone doesn’t continue.
You’ve Been Elfed Gift Ideas
Need ideas? Whether you’re DIY-ing treats or grabbing goodies on a Target run, here are fun ideas that don’t break the bank:
- Homemade cookies or fudge
- Hot cocoa kits or Christmas mugs
- Holiday coloring pages & crayons
- Mini candles or cozy socks
- Small games like Christmas trivia or Christmas charades
- 🖊️ Stickers, pencils, erasers, and other stocking stuffers
- 🎁 A Christmas-themed kitchen towel or cookie cutter set
You can even print extra fun like our Christmas Carol trivia or gift tags to tuck inside!
You’ve Been Elfed Poem
While there are many versions of the You’ve Been Elfed Poem floating around the internet, this has been our favorite.
You’ve Been Elfed!
A little elf has come to town to bring something just for you by Santa’s Elf Crew.
We hope you want to join us in spreading Christmas cheer!
So post this Eelf on your door, bake a treat or two, and help spread the joy of the season until Christmas Day is here!
Love, Santa’s Secret Helpers
Grab Your Free Printable Elf Kit
Our free kit includes:
“You’ve Been Elfed” poem
“We’ve Been Elfed” door sign
Instructions for passing it on
Let’s Spread Joy Together!
If your family gets into the elfing fun, we’d LOVE to see it!
Snap a pic of your treats or delivery adventure and tag us @micheletripple on Instagram. You can also use the hashtag #YouveBeenElfedFun—we might just feature your creation!
Final Thoughts
This little tradition is something we come back to every year—it’s simple, sweet, and fills our hearts with joy. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too.
Don’t forget to download your printable, print a few extras, and start spreading the cheer today. Because kindness is contagious—and the world could always use a little more of it.
Grab Your Printable
Start a tradition your whole neighborhood will look forward to every year.
Download your “You’ve Been Elfed” printable and get ready to spread some joy!
More Holiday Fun You’ll Love
Want more festive fun? Check out these other Christmas favorites:
- Printable Christmas Charades
- Christmas Conversation Starters
- Secret Santa Gift Tags + Questionnaire
- Christmas Would You Rather
- Christmas Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Michele Tripple is a renowned author and expert in the fields of parenting, relationships, and personal development. She is a certified Life Coach with her degree in marriage and family studies, her experience as a Family Life Educator, and over a decade of experience as a professional writer; Michele has authored books that provide practical advice and insights into improving family dynamics and personal growth. Her work is celebrated for its blend of research-driven information and relatable, real-world applications. Michele has been a keynote speaker at conferences and has contributed to numerous publications and media outlets, solidifying her reputation as an authoritative voice in her field and helping families build relationships.
Thank you!!!