Halloween is coming up which means it is pumpkin carving season! Statistically, only 44 percent of Americans plan to carve pumpkins each Halloween. This has got to change. Here is how to pick and carve the perfect pumpkin for this upcoming Halloween.

In order to carve a pumpkin, of course, a pumpkin needs to be picked first. Going to Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm and Fall Fest, in Homer Glen, IL, is the perfect place to pick pumpkins! Under the google reviews when “Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm and Fall Fest” is searched, Jocelyn, a frequent customer says, “This is our favorite pumpkin patch near Chicago; there’s so many activities, food and animals.” The best types of pumpkins to carve are ones grown in a field which is just what they do. A pumpkin with a stem that is hard and is a dark green color means it is the perfect one to carve. Pumpkins which are a lighter orange color tend to be the easiest ones to carve. Darker ones might be a bit of a challenge but if that’s what someone is looking for, go for it! To add to this, pumpkins with a darker orange color will last longer. Use these characteristics to wisely choose a perfect pumpkin! 

Now that a perfect pumpkin has been chosen, it is time to prepare in order to carve it. This is where it gets pretty messy and creativity comes into play. Before beginning, the recommended utensil used to carve pumpkins is a craft or serrated knife; these ensure clean lines when carving. Firstly, cut a large hole around the stem; big enough that an entire fist and arm can fit in it. Once that is done, using hands or a large spoon, scoop out all the seeds and guts inside of the pumpkin. This will make it hollow and allow lights to be added inside if preferred. When completed, it’s officially time to carve the pumpkin! This is where creativity is needed, it is possible to carve absolutely anything someone’s mind can think of. Jessica Gallegos, Junior, gives her advice on this process. “Print out a picture to use as a stencil or simply get some stencils from the store.” But don’t forget, it’s your pumpkin. 

To make this process more efficient, use a marker to draw out a shape. This makes it possible to carve along the lines and reduce the risk of making a mistake. After this, it is optional, but add a light inside of the pumpkin and put the top back on again. In the end, a  perfect pumpkin will be made and can be shown off to friends and family!