Spreading cheer with “You’ve Been Elfed” baskets during the holidays is a delightful way to surprise friends, neighbors, or loved ones! These baskets are packed with holiday-themed goodies, perfect for warming hearts during the winter season.
Whether you’re trying out “Elfing” for the first time or looking for new inspiration, we’re here to help you create a magical Elfed Basket for anyone on your list!
What is a “You’ve Been Elfed” Basket?
A “You’ve Been Elfed” Basket is a holiday-themed gift basket filled with treats, small gifts, and a few surprises. Part of a fun tradition, people “elf” their friends, family, or neighbors by secretly dropping off a basket of holiday cheer, along with a note encouraging the recipient to pay it forward by “elfing” others.
Ready to create an Elfed Basket that’s merry and bright? Here’s our list of must-have items!
Must-Have Items for a Perfect “You’ve Been Elfed” Basket
1. Festive Baskets or Containers
Start with a fun, holiday-themed container! Choose something reusable and seasonal to make the basket feel extra special. Look for:
- Red or green gift baskets
- Mini holiday stockings
- Snowflake-patterned buckets
- Holiday-themed gift bags
These containers can be reused throughout the holiday season for décor or other festive activities. You can often find them at budget-friendly stores like Dollar Tree!
2. Holiday Candy & Snacks
No basket is complete without holiday treats! Load up on classic holiday goodies to bring some sweetness to the season:
- Peppermint bark or candy canes
- Chocolate Santas or snowmen
- Mini gingerbread cookies
- Hot chocolate packets with marshmallows
3. Fun Holiday Toys and Goodies
Add some playful holiday-themed items to keep the fun going! Great choices include:
- Mini snow globes
- Holiday stamps or stickers
- Festive slime or playdough
- Jingle bells, mini ornaments, or light-up necklaces
4. Cozy Accessories
Include items that bring warmth and comfort during the chilly season. Consider:
- Fuzzy holiday socks with snowflakes or reindeer
- Holiday-themed mittens
- Cozy slippers
5. Glow-in-the-Dark or Light-Up Items
Add a touch of sparkle to your basket with light-up or glow-in-the-dark accessories, which are perfect for dark winter evenings! Some popular options are:
- Light-up holiday necklaces or bracelets
- Glow sticks in festive colors
6. Printable “You’ve Been Elfed” Notes
Don’t forget to include a fun “You’ve Been Elfed” note! This printable explains the tradition and encourages the recipient to join in the holiday spirit by elfing others. You can use one of our free printables (linked below) or create your own!
Get your FREE “You’ve Been Elfed” Printables here!

Creating a “You’ve Been Elfed” basket is a wonderful way to spread kindness and joy during the holiday season. We hope this list inspires you to make a festive, meaningful basket that will bring smiles to everyone who receives it. Happy Elfing!