How to Create Date Picker Filter for Custom Posts with Custom Fields in Elementor? (ACF, Pods, Metabox)

Key Takeaways

  • WP Search Filters widget from The Plus Addons for Elementor allows users to create a date picker filter for custom post types based on custom fields.
  • Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) can be used to create custom fields for a custom post type, such as Books.
  • The Dynamic Listing widget must be used alongside the WP Search Filters widget to display filtered results.
  • Users can customize the date picker layout with options for managing date options, button texts, and default selected date ranges.
Table Of Content

Do you want to create a date picker filter for your custom post type based on a custom field? A date picker filter allows users to select a specific date or date range and filter custom post content accordingly. This is useful for websites that feature custom posts, such as events, services etc.

With the WP Search Filters widget from The Plus Addons for Elementor, you can easily create a date picker filter for custom post types based on custom fields. 

To check the complete feature overview documentation of The Plus Addons for Elementor WP Search Filters widget, click here.

Requirement  – This widget is a part of The Plus Addons for Elementor, make sure its installed & activated to enjoy all its powers.

To do this, make sure you have created at least one custom post type, you can use the free Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) to create a custom post type.

For instance, we have created a custom post type called Books. 

Create Custom Fields

First, you have to create some custom fields for your custom post types and assign values to them.

You can use ACF, PODs, Metabox and Toolset plugins for creating custom fields, for instance, we’ll use the free Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) to create the custom fields.

Once you have the installed plugin follow the steps – 

1. To do this from the Dashboard, go to ACF > Field Groups and click on Add New button. 

2. Add a name to the field group.

3. Then add a date picker field and add a name. 

4. Once done, from the Settings section, set the location to your custom post types i.e. Book under Rules.

Add datepicker custom fields cpt

5. Once done, click on the Save Changes button.

6. Then you have to add value in the custom fields on some custom posts.

Assign date value custom fields cpt

Use the WP Search Filters Widget

You have to use the WP Search Filters widget with the Dynamic Listing widget.

Note: Make sure you’ve enabled both WP Search Filters and Dynamic Listing widgets from The Plus Settings.

Place the widgets in your desired location on the page or template, then follow the steps –

1. In the Dynamic Listing widget, select Search List from the Post Listing Types dropdown.

2. Then select your custom post type from the Post Type dropdown.

Dynamic listing search list

3. After that, select the appropriate style and layout.

4. In the WP Search Filters widget, open the Category item under the Filter Area.

5. From the Filter Type dropdown, select WP Filter.

6. Then, from the Select Source dropdown, select Date Picker.

7. From the Select Type dropdown, select ACF connection

Note: Since we have used ACF to create the custom fields, we have selected ACF connection. So if you have created the custom fields with other plugins like PODs, Metabox or Toolset select the option accordingly.

8. In the Connection Key field, you have to add the custom field name.

To find the field name in ACF, edit the field group there you will find the field name.

Acf field name cpt datepicker
Wp search filters datepicker acf connection cpt

From the Date layout dropdown, you can select the date picker layout. Here, you’ll find two options – 

Default – This will create a default data picker layout.

Custom – With this option, you can customize the date picker layout. Under the Custom Filters, you’ll find different customization options.

From here, you can manage the date option, date range option, button texts, date of the week, month name, default selected date range, custom date range, custom year range etc.

Now you’ll see a date picker that you can use to filter custom posts by date.

Also, read How to Create Search Filter for Custom Posts in Elementor.

About the Author

Photo of Aditya Sharma CMO of The Plus Addons for Elementor
CMO · The Plus Addons for Elementor · 10 years experience

He has spent years in the WordPress ecosystem building, breaking, and optimizing sites until they actually perform. He works at the intersection of speed, growth, and usability, helping creators ship websites that load fast and convert. An active WordPress community contributor sharing through tools, tutorials, and direct collaboration. Tested practice, not theory.

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Related Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the date picker filter isn't showing up?

If the date picker filter isn't appearing, ensure that both the WP Search Filters and Dynamic Listing widgets are enabled in The Plus Addons for Elementor settings. Additionally, verify that you've correctly set the custom field name in the Connection Key field. If the field name is incorrect or the widgets are not enabled, the filter will not function properly.

What is the best way to set up custom fields for the date picker?

To set up custom fields for the date picker, use the Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) plugin to create a date picker field. Ensure you assign this field to your custom post type, such as Books. This setup allows you to filter posts based on the date values users select, making it essential to correctly configure the field's location and settings.

What are common mistakes when setting up the date picker filter?

A common mistake is not correctly linking the custom field name in the Connection Key field of the WP Search Filters widget. If the field name doesn't match exactly with what you set in ACF, the filter won't work. Always double-check the field name and ensure that both the WP Search Filters and Dynamic Listing widgets are enabled.

Last reviewed: April 10, 2026