On this Second day of Yule, we show you ideas for a yule log. 

What Is a Yule Log? Make a Yule Log! What Is a Yule Log? 

In the days of the Vikings, the Yule log was an entire tree that they decorated with runes and other protective symbols. The Yule Log was the symbol of the coming sun and eventual spring. 

In 1725 Henry Bourne wrote in Antiquities of the Common People: 

“Our Fore-Fathers, when the common Devices of Eve were over, and Night was come on, were wont to light up Candles of an uncommon Size, which were called Christmas-Candles, and to lay a Log of Wood upon the Fire, which they termed a Yule-Clog, or Christmas-Block… I am apt to believe, the Log has had the Name of the Yule-Log, from its being burnt as an Emblem of the returning Sun, and the Increase of its Light and Heat.” 

The Norse would place the large end of the log in the hearth and burn it for 12 days. During that joyous time, the rest of the log would take over the den and not make moving around difficult in any way at all. Over time, since everyone likes a cozy fire (and since it’s easier to not change the customs of a culture you’re trying to get to join your religion), the pagan tradition became associated with the 12 days of Christmas. As did wreaths, mistletoe, and Krampus. 

How to Make Your Own Yule Log Whether you’re pagan or Christian or just really like fire, here’s how to make your own at home. 

Gather the following items: A log Pine cones Dried berries Mistletoe, holly, pine, or other seasonal forest cuttings Feathers and cinnamon Festive ribbon made from natural fibers Candles Pine tree clippings Cinnamon sticks Candle holders (if burning candles tabletop) Glue- hot Glue ( if you do not plan to burn your log) Wrap the log with ribbon and then tuck the decorations underneath. Then, use it as a table centerpiece or burn it in your fireplace or a bonfire on the Winter Solstice or during Yule. If you want to use it as an alter, you can burn candles and either keep the log for next year, or burn your log on the 12th day (or on New Years eve), to bring in the new year. 

Does It Matter What Wood I Use? Plastic that looks like wood is frowned upon, but any type of real wood is fine. If you want to be historically accurate, here’s what’s traditional by country: Northern Europe and England: Oak Scotland: Birch France: Cherry Devon/Somerset: Ash twigs.

Here are some ideas for Yule logs, some people use glue, you may want to refrain from doing do if you plan to burn your log at the end. You can drill holes in the logs for candles, but remember that if you plan to burn candles in the log, it can not burn on a table or alter setting as it will be a fire hazard. Use common sense when building your yule log. If you plan to burn candles on the log, then make sure you use fire safe candle holders, unless you only plan to burn the candles when you burn the log in a fireplace or bon-fire setting. 

An alternative... a Yule Log Cake! YULE LOG CAKE (BÛCHE DE NOËL)