Wolfenoot

The Wolfenoot is celebrated on November 23 each year. It’s a day to honour the spirit of wolves, to shine a spotlight on kindness to dogs and animals, and to enjoy a bit of fun, gift-hiding and moon-cake with loved ones.

History of Wolfenoot

Wolfenoot began in New Zealand when a seven-year-old boy imagined a holiday centered on the “Spirit of the Wolf” and people who are kind to dogs. His mother shared his idea online, and it caught on.
The holiday takes place each November 23 as a symbolic date, it has been described as the anniversary of “The Great Wolf’s Death” in the lore of the holiday.
Over time it has grown into a gentle, fun tradition with suggestions of hiding small gifts, eating roast meat (or vegetarian alternatives) and cake shaped as a full moon, donating to animal shelters, and generally celebrating packs of humans and animals together.

Why is Wolfenoot important?

Wolfenoot invites people to reflect on our relationship with animals, especially canines and wolves, and to recognize the kindness shown to them by humans. It encourages us to consider animals not just as pets or companions, but as beings worthy of respect.
It also gives us an opportunity to celebrate community, caring, and generosity in a lighthearted but meaningful way. By linking the holiday to simple acts of kindness and gift-giving, it reminds us that compassion can be playful and inclusive.

• It highlights the often-overlooked moral value of being kind to animals.
• It offers a creative way for families and friends to celebrate together with a new tradition.
• It supports charitable giving and awareness for animal welfare.
• It encourages people to enjoy nature, wildlife, and the metaphor of the wolf ‘pack’.
• It creates a moment of joy and connection in the late autumn.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) Wolfenoot

You can celebrate Wolfenoot in many ways — whether you have a dog, love wolves, or just want to spread kindness. Gather your friends or family and maybe include your pet. Hide small gifts around the house (as the “Spirit of the Wolf” is said to do), share treats, bake a cake decorated like the full moon, and spend quality time with your animal companions. You might also donate to a dog shelter or volunteer time to support animals in need.
Keep the atmosphere warm, fun and generous. You don’t need to follow strict rules, the heart of Wolfenoot is about kindness and community. Use the hashtag #Wolfenoot if you share online, and enjoy a howling moment together under the moon.

• Hide small surprise gifts for people (especially dog-lovers) around your home.
• Give extra love and attention to your dog (or a friend’s dog) today.
• Bake or buy a cake decorated like a full moon and enjoy it with friends.
• Prepare a hearty meal (roast meat or a vegetarian alternative) and share stories about animals you love.
• Donate to or volunteer at an animal shelter, wolf sanctuary, or dog-rescue organization.

Wolfenoot Dates Table