WISH ON A YULE PINECONE

Wishing on a Yule pinecone is a magical winter solstice tradition that has been celebrated for centuries. This family-friendly activity lets participants write down their goals, intentions, and wishes, then tuck them into pinecones to burn in the fire. It’s a meaningful, hands-on alternative to typical New Year’s resolutions and adds a fun, memorable moment to any winter solstice gathering.

My family started incorporating this yule pinecone activity into our existing winter solstice traditions. We'll have family over for dinner, bake and decorate a yule log for dessert, and finish off the night with burning our yule wishing pinecones.

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What is a Yule Wishing Pinecone?

A Yule wishing pinecone is more than just a craft—it’s a symbolic way to set intentions for the coming year. Participants write their goals or wishes on scraps of paper, roll them up, and insert them into the crevices of a pinecone. When the pinecones are burned in a fire, it’s believed that the wishes are released, bringing energy and intention into the new season.

This centuries-old tradition is perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or quiet reflection at home.

How to Make Your Own Wishing Pinecones

You’ll need a few simple supplies to get started:

• Pinecones
• Small scraps of paper or recycled note paper
• Markers, pens, or colored pencils
• Optional: glitter, ribbons, or other craft decorations
• Fireproof container or fire pit for burning

Directions:

1. Write a goal, intention, or wish on a scrap of paper.
2. Roll the paper into a small tube or fold it to fit into the pinecone’s gaps.
3. Insert the paper into the pinecone crevices.
4. Optionally, decorate the pinecone with glitter, ribbons, or paint for a festive touch.
5. When ready, place the pinecones in a fireproof container or fire pit and carefully burn them.

Involving Kids in the Yule Pinecone Tradition

Getting kids involved can make the activity extra special. Go on a nature hike to collect pinecones, then set up a craft station with kid-safe markers, glitter, and ribbons so everyone can decorate their wishing pinecones. Younger children can participate by choosing their colors or helping fold the papers.

Once finished, gather together to share your wishes and intentions, then burn the pinecones as a family activity. Kids will love the creativity and the excitement of seeing their wishes “magically” released.

If it gets too cold where you live to sit around the fire outside, then consider an indoor fireplace as another option. You could also encourage your party guests to take their pinecones home with them as a reminder of their goals.

Small holidays like winter solstice are some of my family's favorites. There are zero expectations for these obscure holidays, so you are free to set your own traditions. Are there any holidays outside the norm that you celebrate?