Birthday
HydrangeasThe jack-o'-lantern is the main symbol of Halloween and an easy way to decorate your home in autumn. It takes about an hour: you need a pumpkin, a knife, a spoon and a little patience. Here is how to choose a pumpkin, carve a lantern step by step, light it safely and make it last.
Autumn bouquets for the festive table can be found among our chrysanthemums and flower baskets.
Where the tradition comes from
According to Irish legend, Stingy Jack tricked the devil and was doomed after death to wander in darkness with an ember inside a hollowed turnip. In Ireland and Scotland lanterns were carved from turnips and swedes, and emigrants to America swapped them for pumpkins — larger and easier to carve. More about the holiday in Halloween history and traditions.
How to carve a pumpkin: step by step
- Tools: a long knife for the lid, a narrow knife or saw for the design, a metal spoon or scraper, a marker, a stencil.
- A lid in the base is handier: the pumpkin sits right over the candle and the top stays whole.
- Wall thickness of 2–3 cm: thinner dries out fast, thicker is hard to carve.
- Carve small central details first and large openings last.
Safety
- Adults do the cutting; children can draw the design and scoop.
- Work on a stable surface and keep your hand above the cutting line.
- Use an LED candle or battery lights instead of a flame.
- Real candles only under supervision, away from curtains and dry leaves.
How to make your pumpkin last
- A carved pumpkin lasts 3–5 days; an uncarved one, several weeks.
- Rub the cut edges with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to slow drying.
- Keep it cool; you can refrigerate it during the day or mist it with water.
- Instead of carving, paint the pumpkin or decorate it with flowers — it will last longer.
Pumpkins and flowers
A small pumpkin makes a lovely vase: scoop it out, place a glass of water inside and add an autumn posy of chrysanthemums, roses, hypericum and grasses. It suits the table not only at Halloween but all autumn.
FAQ
Which pumpkin is best for a lantern?
An even, medium orange pumpkin with a thin rind; field and decorative types are easier than dense culinary ones.
How long does a carved pumpkin last?
3–5 days, up to a week in cool conditions.
Can I eat the flesh?
Yes, if it is a culinary pumpkin that has not been treated; remove the flesh and seeds right after opening.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
