What to Do with Pumpkins Before, During, and After Halloween

Halloween season is upon us, and pumpkins take center stage in both our decor and our kitchens! Whether you’re prepping for spooky displays or planning to whip up some delicious fall recipes, pumpkins can be incredibly versatile. Let’s explore some creative and practical things you can do with pumpkins before, during, and after Halloween.

Before Halloween: Prepping for the Festivities

1. Pick the Perfect Pumpkin
   Before Halloween, it’s time to choose the best pumpkins for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a flawless pumpkin for carving or smaller pumpkins for cooking, here’s what to keep in mind:
   • For Carving: Look for a medium-to-large pumpkin with a firm, flat base and a smooth surface for easier carving. Make sure it’s free from blemishes or bruises to ensure it lasts longer.
   • For Cooking: Smaller sugar pumpkins are best for cooking since they’re sweeter and have a smoother texture than the larger carving pumpkins. These are perfect for pies, soups, or roasting.
2. Decorate with Whole Pumpkins
   If you’re not ready to carve just yet, whole pumpkins are beautiful for fall decor both indoors and outdoors. You can paint them, arrange them in a fall centrepiece, or place them on your porch alongside colourful gourds and mums for a festive autumn look.
3. Prepare for Pumpkin Carving
   As Halloween approaches, get your carving tools ready! You can create templates or search for carving designs online. If you want to extend your pumpkin’s life, consider these tips before carving:
   • Wash and dry the pumpkin to remove any dirt or bacteria.
   • Apply petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to the carved edges to help retain moisture and slow the decay process.

During Halloween: Maximize Pumpkin Fun

1. Carve Jack-O’-Lanterns
   Now that Halloween is here, it’s time to carve those pumpkins! Whether you’re going for spooky, funny, or artistic, the possibilities are endless. Be sure to carve in a well-lit area with all your tools handy:
   • Start by cutting out the top to create a lid, and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
   • Save those seeds for roasting later!
   • Once your design is carved, place a small candle or LED light inside to illuminate your creation.
2. Host a Pumpkin Carving Party
   Gather friends and family for a fun pumpkin carving party. Provide carving tools, stencils, and refreshments, and encourage everyone to get creative. You can even hold a friendly competition for the best design!
3. Bake Halloween Treats
   Don’t waste that pumpkin flesh! Halloween is the perfect time to bake pumpkin-inspired goodies. You can make:
   • Pumpkin pies: A classic that never fails.
   • Pumpkin bread or muffins: Moist, spiced, and perfect for snacking.
   • Pumpkin soup: Warm and comforting, it’s ideal for a chilly Halloween night.
4. Roast the Pumpkin Seeds
   Once you’ve carved your pumpkins, save the seeds and roast them for a healthy and delicious snack. Simply clean the seeds, toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with your favourite seasonings (salt, cinnamon, or paprika), and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

After Halloween: Extend the Pumpkin’s Life

1. Compost Your Pumpkin
   Once the fun is over, you might be wondering what to do with your Jack-O’-Lantern. If your pumpkin is starting to rot, composting is a great eco-friendly option. Pumpkins break down quickly in compost piles, adding valuable nutrients back into the soil.
2. Feed Wildlife
   Another fantastic way to give your pumpkin a second life is by feeding local wildlife. Cut your pumpkin into smaller pieces and place them outside for animals like squirrels, birds, and deer to enjoy.
3. Turn It into a Bird Feeder
   If your pumpkin is still in decent shape after Halloween, you can hollow it out a bit more, fill it with birdseed, and hang it in your yard as a makeshift bird feeder. It’s a great way to attract birds and continue using your pumpkin in a unique way.
4. Make Pumpkin Puree
   If you have uncarved pumpkins left over, you can make your own pumpkin puree. Simply roast the pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth. This puree can be frozen for future use in pies, soups, or smoothies. It’s a great way to keep the taste of fall going long after Halloween!
5. Pumpkin Skin Care
   Did you know that pumpkins are full of vitamins and antioxidants that are great for your skin? You can use the leftover flesh to create homemade face masks. Just mix pumpkin puree with honey and yogurt for a nourishing and hydrating treatment.

Conclusion

Pumpkins aren’t just for carving spooky faces—they’re a symbol of the season and can be used in so many creative and sustainable ways before, during, and after Halloween. From decorating your home to feeding wildlife or whipping up delicious fall recipes, pumpkins offer endless possibilities. Embrace the spirit of the season by making the most of every pumpkin!