Why Is the ‘Elf on the Shelf’ So Darn Popular?

Okay, I know it's really Here comes Santa Claus. But the Elf has sort of taken over ushering in the holiday before the Big Man makes his entrance.

One of my fondest childhood memories is opening the Advent calendar every day leading up to Christmas. The absolute best was the time my parents bought the one where there were little gifts behind each door. I mean come on, presents every day leading up to the big day, amazing.

Many years past my childhood, a lady named Carol Aebersold co - wrote the book, "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition" probably never imagining how adults would riff on her clever idea. Yes, her book has grown for sure.

In case you remain clueless about this growing holiday tradition, the Elf on the Shelf, a small elf doll, is sent from the North Pole at the start of Advent to stay inside your home to keep a watchful eye on the children and make sure they belong on Santa’s “nice” list.

I kinda still love the Advent calendar idea, rather than an Elf. But what do I know. The Elf has gotten so big it's even featured in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

With it's popularity in mind, I found this video with 50 Elf on the Shelf Holiday Decorating Ideas in case you find yourself having a brain fart in the creative department!

Now if you want to REALLY wow your kids for Christmas we have it all planned out for you. It's called A Night at the North Pole and it happens at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Danbury on December 10. It's a night filled with Christmas joy for the kids and a sleepover that includes breakfast with Santa. Get all the info and book reservations now.

Here's an idea, bring the Elf for photo ops.

Listen to Pam Brooks weekdays from 10-3PM on 95.1 FM, online at i95rock.com/listen-live/ or by downloading the radioPup app for your mobile device.