Why do we carve pumpkins on Halloween?

Annual traditions like the carving of jack-o’ lanterns have become a way of cultivating the holiday that we’ve come to know as Halloween. All Hallows’ Eve (or All Saints’ Day – November 1st) was a tradition that originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, during which people would gather around a roaring bonfire and wear costumes to ward-off evil spirits. The carving of pumpkins is a modern twist on an old tale, and it’s been around since the early 1900’s. Families would cut-out of pumpkins or other vegetables such as turnips and rutabagas to decorate their homes and gardens in Halloween style. As it was intended with the original festival, these carved pumpkins were meant to ward-off evil spirits. When carving pumpkins, one must figure out its height and weight, and stencil a design where comfortable before cutting out the innards of the pumpkin. Finally, place a candle in the center and enjoy the fruit (or vegetable) of your labor. Now-a-days, if you are at home on Halloween, it is a good idea to have a carved pumpkin and small presents or sweets at hand to offer the trick-or-treaters that knock on your door wearing ‘scary’ faces. Making lanterns is extremely fun especially when doing it with loved ones. This is a family activity for the fall and a childhood experience that must be repeated every year.