The Elf on the Shelf

The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition is a 2005 children's picture book, written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell, and illustrated by Coë Steinwart. The book tells a Christmas-themed story, written in rhyme, that explains how Santa Claus knows who is naughty and nice. It describes elves visiting children between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, after which they return to the North Pole until the next holiday season. The Elf on the Shelf comes in a keepsake box that features a hardbound picture book and a small soft toy in the form of a pixie scout elf.

History with the 2159 Parade
The Elf On The Shelf made his 2159 Parade debut in 2019, and features the classic sitting pose normally associated with the small plush elf, and has since become a parade staple. This balloon is also one of the few self-sponsored balloons in the Parade's history, having no sponsorship partner labeled on his banners and lineup informations. He is currently the oldest balloon still in use for the Parade.