When does the elf first appear for each holiday season?

The elf typically appears at the beginning of December, often on December 1st, as part of the "Elf on the Shelf" tradition. This festive character is said to arrive to observe children's behavior and report back to Santa Claus. The elf remains in the home throughout December, leading up to Christmas, after which it departs until the next holiday season. Some families may also incorporate the elf into celebrations for other holidays, but the traditional appearance is centered around Christmas.