There are many different types of elves in folklore and mythology, but the elves most often associated with Christmas and Santa Claus are typically depicted as small, humanoid beings who live in the North Pole and help Santa Claus deliver presents to children on Christmas Eve. They are usually described as being friendly, mischievous, and very skilled at making toys and other items for the holiday. In some stories, they are also said to have magical abilities, such as the ability to fly and to know when children are sleeping.