Over the years I’ve attended many events where jack-o-lanterns were put on display (scroll down for . One of my favorites was the Keene pumpkin festival which holds the world record for the most carved and lit Jack-O-Lanterns. Another was my local park’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular that showcased over 5,000 pumpkins. Wow! Both of these events made me realize just how amazing jack-o-lanterns can be, but carving pumpkins isn’t as easy as it may seem.

Carving ideas + tips for carving a jack-o-lantern

Match the shape to the design – If you’re carving an intricate design, pick a pumpkin that has a flat surface. Use your round pumpkins for simple designs, like jack-o’-lantern faces.

Use an ice cream scoop –  Using a tool that you already have at home is a great way to be frugal AND it makes grabbing all the gunk out of the pumpkin much easier. Using the ice cream scoop prevents you from having your arm covered in pumpkin slime…which in my opinion is definitely a plus.

Find Props – Carving is only one way to decorate your pumpkin. Get creative with your jack-o-lantern. Feel free to use whatever you have around the house. A witch hat can turn that scary face into a character. A few other ideas are: twizzlers for hair, wood chips for teeth, and even glitter for extra flair.

Used Water Based Marker – If you decide to draw your jack-o-lantern’s face you may make some mistakes. This is especially true if kids are involved. I suggest using a water based market because it can be a erased. Simply use a damp sponge to wipe off the marker and your pumpkin will look brand new.

If you’re looking for some creative ideas, you’re in luck! This weekend I was able to attend another pumpkin-filled event. I snapped sooo many pictures of awesome carved Halloween pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns at a local park’s display. I saw killer pumpkins, a snowman pumpkin, and a spider pumpkin. Hope it gives you lots of good ideas for how to carve your pumpkin this Halloween!

Which Jack-O-Lantern is your favorite?

p.s. if your kids are too young to start carving pumpkins (or if you’re just not feeling the unpreventable mess) you can try out this fun pumpkin carving game!

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