If you haven’t heard of Wolfenoot, you’re probably not alone. However, this “made-up holiday” has captured the attention of people all over the world. Wolfenoot was created in 2018 by a seven-year-old boy in New Zealand. He wanted to celebrate the “Spirit of the Wolf” and the people who love them. His mother, author Jax Goss, tweeted the idea and it took off immediately.
What is Wolfenoot?
Here is the original post from Jax Goss, which can be found on the official Wolfenoot website at Wolfenoot.com:
“My son has invented a holiday called Wolfenoot. It is when the Spirit of the Wolf brings and hides small gifts around the house for everyone. People who have, have had, or are kind to dogs get better gifts than anyone else. You eat roast meat (because wolves eat meat) and cake decorated like a full moon. A holiday to the spirit of wolves that celebrates people who are kind to dogs? I can 100% get behind this. So we will be celebrating Wolfenoot. It’s on the 23rd November if anyone else is moved to celebrate it. If you do, please post pics, so he can see how his idea has spread. If you’re posting publicly about it, use #wolfenoot. If you’re a new fan, welcome to the Wolfenati.”
While Wolfenoot may have started with the imagination of a young boy, its impact has been far-reaching. The holiday has inspired a sense of global community, with people from all over the world coming together to celebrate a shared love for animals and a commitment to kindness. Communities have organized Wolfenoot events where individuals gather to celebrate together, share stories and engage in activities that promote kindness and empathy. The holiday has even sparked the creation of Wolfenoot merchandise with proceeds going towards animal welfare causes.
With a central theme that revolves around the shared love for animals, particularly wolves and dogs, and the joy that comes from acts of kindness, it seems that Wolfenoot may be more than a passing trend. If you are wondering how you can celebrate this Wolfenoot season, here are some ideas that will have you well on your way to Wolfenati status.
Spread kindness
Wolfenoot is the perfect time to spread kindness. Since the holiday revolves around canines and our love for them, many people like to volunteer at local animal shelters or donate to animal welfare organizations. Others participate by giving small gifts to each other and their four-legged friends. Or, you can spread the Wolfenoot spirit by simply being kind to others.
Bake a cake
Meat and a cake decorated like a full moon are encouraged to be eaten on Wolfenoot, however, there are no strict dietary rules for the day. If you enjoy eating meat, try grilling out or find a new recipe for a meat you enjoy. If you are a vegetarian, you can eat whatever you like, eating meat is not required. If you enjoy baking, a simple round cake with white icing will suffice as a full moon. Or, you could buy a cake or even a pie if you like. It is all meant to be fun and to just enjoy the spirit of the day.
Be creative
Without the imagination and creativity of a seven-year-old boy, this holiday would not exist. So, take some time to get creative! Dog themed crafts, baking dog treats or even telling stories about animals that you love are all great ways to share your passion for being kind to animals and to celebrate Wolfenoot.
Support the cause
The Wolfenoot Story is the tale of how an ordinary wolf became the Spirit of the Wolf, delivering gifts and kindness every 23rd November on Wolfenoot. It is told by the seven-year old creator of Wolfenoot, in his own words. It is illustrated by Maria Roshto and can be purchased online. You can also make and sell your own Wolfenoot merchandise, as long as you link back to the Wolfenoot website and donate part of the proceeds to a charity organization related to wolves, dogs or children.
Enjoy the holiday
Wolfenoot is a holiday that helps us remember the power of imagination and the ability of people to come together for a common cause. A young boy’s idea in a New Zealand home has evolved into a global celebration of kindness and love for animals. It’s a reminder that no matter what is going on in the world, there are universal values that can still unite us. So, on November 23rd, let’s join the celebration of Wolfenoot, embrace the spirit of the wolf and spread kindness wherever we go. As the young creator of the holiday says, “Have a howly Wolfenoot!”
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Photo courtesy Pixabay/Schaferle
Barbara Bauer is a Georgia-based blogger obsessed with inspiring others in the pursuit of self-development. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, drinking way too much coffee, and speaking with a British accent whenever possible.
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