The Magic of Trinket Trading

Whether you’re shy or bold, young or old, a seasoned faire-goer or brand new to the revelry, trinket trading is a beautiful way to break the ice, share something small and meaningful, and walk away with both a keepsake and a new friend.

What Is Trinket Trading?

Trinket trading is exactly what it sounds like: the exchange of small tokens, handmade items, or curious finds between festival-goers. Think friendship bracelets, hand-carved beads, tiny scrolls, wax-sealed notes, rune stones, enamel pins, origami, charms, pressed flowers—the only limit is your imagination.

Each item is usually made or chosen with a bit of care, but it doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive. The value lies in the gesture, not the object. It’s a way of saying, “I see you. I’m glad you’re here.”

How Do I Take Part?

If you’d like to join in, you simply bring along a few trinkets of your own to offer. To let others know you’re open to trading, wear the official Wyldwood trinket trading symbol somewhere visible—this could be a fabric patch, a pin, a ribbon, a badge—anything that marks you as a participant.

The official Wyldwood Trinket Trading Symbol

When you spot someone else wearing the symbol, you can approach them with a smile and ask, “Would you like to trade trinkets?”—and just like that, the magic begins.

You don’t have to trade with everyone you meet, and there’s no pressure to talk for long. A moment is enough. Many people find it’s one of the easiest ways to strike up conversation, share a laugh, or even swap stories and lore.

Why People Love It

Trinket trading has become one of the most cherished parts of Festival and Convention Culture, and it’s easy to see why. It’s welcoming. It’s creative. And it allows everyone to be part of something special, regardless of age or background.

Many of our visitors tell us they’ve kept every trinket they’ve ever received—each one a reminder of a conversation, a smile, or a shared moment during the weekend.

It’s also a brilliant way to meet people without needing to “perform” or make small talk. Just a simple gesture, a swap of tokens, and maybe a brief word. And yet that one moment can open the door to a new friendship, guildmate, or kindred spirit.

Want to Get Involved?

Start making or gathering your trinkets now! And if you’re not sure where to begin, our Facebook group and Discord server are full of ideas, photos, and fellow traders already crafting their collections. Join us there to get inspired, ask questions, or show off your works in progress.

We’ll be sharing more about the official trinket trading symbol, including printable versions and where to get one, in the weeks leading up to the festival. Just keep an eye on our channels—or ask around in the community if you’re curious now.

Whether you trade three trinkets or thirty, it’s all part of the magic of Wyldwood. So get crafting, wear your symbol, and be ready to meet the most wonderful people in the most unexpected ways.

We’ll see you by the fire, by the market stalls, or in the middle of the woods—trinkets in hand, stories ready to begin!