Halloween is right around the corner, and pumpkins and Jack-o-lanterns are cropping up everywhere! Today, carving pumpkins and creating a Jack-o-lantern for decoration is a traditional Halloween activity.
So how did these gorgeous gourds become the symbol of Halloween?
It all started over 400 years ago, in Ireland, with an Irish folktale about a man forced to wander the land with nothing but an ember, and a Samhain tradition of carving faces into potatoes and turnips.
When Irish immigrants came to America in the 1840s, they brought this Samhain tradition with them. They switched to pumpkins because they were available and easier to carve.
Pumpkin carving quickly became an American Halloween tradition, making them a spooky season staple.
Over time, pumpkin carving changed from carving simple faces for protection, to a fun fall family activity that heralds Halloween’s arrival.
Pumpkin carving is truly an all-ages activity, focusing more on fun, individuality, and artistic creativity. From simple patterns and shapes to pop culture icons and intricate designs, you can create anything! (With help from an adult, of course!)
If you need inspiration for your portly pumpkin, come to DeKalb Public Library – we’ve got ghoulishly good books full of fanciful frights! Here are some of our favorite Jack-o-lantern themed books!
Click on the link to place a hold or call us at 815-756-9568 ext. 3350 for help!