As the warm hues of fall begin to weave their magic across the U.S., a familiar itch starts to creep in—are you ready for pumpkin spice mania? With leaves fluttering to the ground and Halloween knocking on our doors, it’s time to celebrate our favorite autumnal squash—pumpkins! 🎃 Not only do they bring a cozy aesthetic to the season, but they also have a versatility that rivals some of the best culinary superstars. From spooky decorations to delectable treats, pumpkins have woven themselves into the very fabric of fall festivities. So, with National Pumpkin Day just around the corner on October 26th, let’s dive into the delightful world of pumpkins and explore the rich history and endless uses of this beloved gourd. Whether you’re carving jack-o-lanterns or whipping up cozy pumpkin recipes, let’s embrace all the quirky and fun ways to honor our pumpkin pals this season! Interested in uncovering more about these festive delights? LEARN MORE.
It’s been an exceptionally warm fall in most parts of the U.S., but that hasn’t kept Fall from slowly creeping in. The leaves are starting to change colors, pumpkin spice lattes are back on the menu at coffee shops, and Halloween decorations are popping up everywhere.
Pumpkins are always a fun part of the Fall harvest and Halloween festivities. With Halloween just around the corner, National Pumpkin Day (October 26th) is a great opportunity to celebrate the versatility of this beloved squash.
Pumpkins have been around for hundreds of years. Native to Central America, they were first used by Native Americans as a food source and for medicinal purposes. When European settlers arrived, they, too, began using pumpkins in their cooking and baking. Since then, they can be found in most corners of the world.
In the mid-19th century, pumpkin pie became a popular dessert in the United States and eventually became associated with Thanksgiving. Today, pumpkins are used for food and as decorations during Halloween and Fall festivals.
Pumpkin carving originated in Ireland and Scotland as part of the Celtic festival of Samhain. The tradition was brought to America by Irish immigrants and has become a staple in Halloween celebrations.
Pumpkins are not just limited to being carved into jack-o-lanterns or used in pies. They can be used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. The largest pumpkin ever grown on record was over 2,000 pounds.
Some popular uses for pumpkins include:
Pumpkins are now synonymous with the Fall season and have become popular in many dishes. Head to a local pumpkin patch or grocery store and stock up before the season ends.
JayDee Vykoukal is a writer, author, mom, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. She has been writing about everything motherhood and health-related since 2018 when her first daughter was born, and she wanted to stay home. She loves to research new topics and fun facts with her kids to teach them about the world.