Ding, dong, ditch is a classic prank. But did you know there is a Christmas version? There are various names for it, such as “You’ve been Elfed” or “You’ve been Jingled”. No matter what you want to call it, the premise is the same; deliver goodies anonymously to houses, ring the doorbell, and run off before you get caught.
This is an ideal no-touch, COVID-safe, joy-bringing activity your church can do to make things a little merrier in your community. The key components each participant needs are:
- a small bag/box/stocking of goodies
- the “you’ve been jingled” poem (to explain what is happening)
- a “we’ve been jingled” sign for the recipients to hang up at their house so they don’t get jingled again
- houses to deliver to
The goodies can be anything you want, including but not limited to:
- Candy
- Baked goods
- Small toys
- Christmas decorations
- Devotionals
Like I listed previously, the main piece in your delivery has to be the “you’ve been jingled” poem. An online search will provide you with many options. Here’s one we particularly enjoy:
You’ve Been Jingled!
The Christmas Elf is jingling around.
Ringing the bells of the homes she has found.
Leaving some goodies for a happier season.
Continue this jingling, you have a good reason.
First, post this Elf on your front door.
Do it soon or you may get some more!
This will let the other Elves know of your visit.
Be sure to participate, you don’t want to miss it!
Second, make two goodies & two copies
Deliver them to two neighbors and try to stay calm.
Jingling the doorbell, it’s certainly fun,
To act like an Elf and then Run, Run, Run!
You only have one day to act, so begin.
Leave it at a door where the Elf hasn’t been.
Deliver when the time is just right.
Ring the doorbell and stay out of sight!
The Jingling Elf wants to bring everyone joy
Visiting the homes of every good girl and boy
This is all in good fun and all we are trying to say,
Is have a Merry Christmas & Happy Holiday!
Here are examples for the jingled letter and door hanger.
Now, send your church troop out to spread a little cheer this Christmas.