Elf on the Shelf typically stops coming on Christmas Eve. On this day, Santa arrives to deliver presents, and the elves have other tasks to help with the big day. Elf on the Shelf has the important responsibility of keeping an eye on the children and reporting back to Santa if they have been good or bad. On Christmas Eve, the elves have other duties to prepare for the big event, and the elf on the shelf takes a break until next year.