Free Christmas elf arrival letter (printable)
The elf arrives on 1 December, and the first morning sets the tone. Here's a ready-to-print arrival letter from the North Pole, plus an official elf arrival certificate where your children can name their elf. A4 PDF, UK spelling, works with any elf toy. Free, no sign-up.
Download the free PDF (2 pages)
How to use it on 1 December
- Print both pages on the evening of 30 November, and fill in your child's name.
- Once they're asleep, sit the elf somewhere easy to spot (the breakfast table works well) with the letter folded in front of it.
- In the morning, read the letter together. It explains the two elf rules: don't touch the elf, and the elf can't talk but hears everything.
- Fill in the certificate together and choose the elf's name. Stick it on the fridge so everyone remembers it.
Stuck for tonight's idea instead? Try the free Christmas elf ideas generator: 60 quick ideas and a 24-night plan you can print.
Questions
Is the elf arrival letter really free?
Yes. It's a free 2-page A4 PDF: the arrival letter and the arrival certificate. No sign-up and no email needed, just download and print.
When should the arrival letter go out?
Most families leave it with the elf on the morning of 1 December, or the night before so it's waiting when the children wake up. The letter says 'To be opened on the morning of 1 December'.
Does it work with any elf toy?
Yes. It doesn't name a brand, so it works with any Christmas elf toy, doll or teddy your family already has. Write your child's name after 'Dear' and sign it from your elf.
Can I print it in black and white?
Yes. It's designed in colour but reads fine on a black and white printer. Print it on A4, or scale to fit on US Letter.
What comes after the arrival letter?
The other 23 nights. The Christmas Elf Visit Kit (£2.49) has a 24-night idea calendar, 24 notes from the elf, elf-sized signs, kindness cards, a scavenger hunt, notes for when the elf gets touched or forgotten, and a Christmas Eve goodbye letter.