National Pumpkin Day
Round and orange, they bring fall to life with their vibrant hue and make for the perfect canvas for all your creative carving ideas.
There’s one thing that represents October more than anything else, and it’s not Halloween (though it’s involved). That thing? The pumpkin.
It starts appearing on shelves and farmers market’s stands on the last week or two of September and is the herald that lets you know that Pumpkin Pies, Jack-o-Lanterns, and all the joys of fall are just around the corner.
National Pumpkin Day celebrates these noble squash’s, and the history and tradition tied up in their iconic orangeness.
How to Celebrate National Pumpkin Day
The first step to celebrating National Pumpkin Day is simple, get out there and get yourself a bunch of pumpkins! Alright, maybe that’s a bit much, maybe instead you could just stop off at your favorite grocery store or restaurant and order yourself up a great big slice of pumpkin pie.
Not in the mood for pie? Pumpkin Spice lattes are going to be hitting the shelves at your local coffee shops (Starbucks is particular fond of trotting them out this time of year).
If you’re feeling really inventive, go back to square one and buy a bunch of pumpkins, roast them, and make yourself an all pumpkin meal! Pumpkin Soup, Pumpkin Bread, Pumpkin Cake, Pumpkin Muffins, and a warm cup of Pumpkin Spice Coffee for dessert!
History of National Pumpkin Day
Often when people think of Halloween, they think of Jack-o-Lanterns and pumpkins, and even when you’re looking at that ‘false medieval’ imagery that’s present in most fantasy games, you’ll regularly see pumpkins being present, especially during Halloween events.
What many people don’t know is that the pumpkin is actually a plant from the new world, like all squash, so the image of pumpkin jack-o-lanterns in front of ancient medieval homes is just plain wrong. These are an all American (And South American) plant, and the jack-o-lantern at Halloween is a distinctly New World thing.
So let’s learn a little bit about the Pumpkin in honor of National Pumpkin Day, starting with what the word pumpkin means. It’s pretty simple, as it comes from the Greek word pepon, or ‘Large Melon’, but it didn’t go straight to the pumpkin.
First, it was pompon to the French, and then pumpion to the British. It was the Americans that finally changed the word to its present Pumpkin, and so it’s been ever since!
National Pumpkin Day is a great opportunity to add this delicious squash to your diet, whether in the form of a traditional pumpkin pie, or a rich and savory pumpkin soup.
National Pumpkin Day FAQs
How did pumpkins become associated with Halloween?
The tradition of carving pumpkins for Halloween originates from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.
During Samhain, people carved turnips and placed embers inside to ward off evil spirits.
When Irish immigrants arrived in America, they found pumpkins more abundant and easier to carve, leading to the modern jack-o’-lantern tradition.
What is the world’s largest pumpkin festival?
The Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival in Germany is the world’s largest pumpkin festival.
Held annually at the Ludwigsburg Palace, it showcases over 400,000 pumpkins, featuring intricate sculptures and culinary delights.
Are there any unusual pumpkin-related sports?
Yes, pumpkin chucking, or “punkin chunkin,” is a sport where participants build devices like trebuchets and air cannons to launch pumpkins as far as possible.
This quirky competition has gained popularity in various parts of the United States.
How did the term “pumpkin” originate?
The word “pumpkin” derives from the Greek word “pepon,” meaning “large melon.”
This term evolved through French as “pompon” and British English as “pumpion” before American colonists adapted it to “pumpkin.”
What are some unique international pumpkin festivals?
In addition to Germany’s Ludwigsburg festival, New Zealand hosts The Great Pumpkin Carnival in Hamilton, featuring pumpkin weigh-ins and creative competitions.
Australia’s Goomeri Pumpkin Festival includes the amusing “Great Australian Pumpkin Roll,” where participants roll pumpkins down a hill.
How did pumpkins influence early American settlers’ diets?
Native Americans introduced pumpkins to early American settlers, teaching them to cultivate and cook the versatile squash.
Pumpkins became a crucial food source, especially during harsh winters, due to their long shelf life and nutritional value.
What is the significance of the Circleville Pumpkin Show?
Held annually in Circleville, Ohio, the Circleville Pumpkin Show is one of the largest pumpkin festivals in the United States. It features parades, contests, and massive pumpkin displays, attracting visitors nationwide.
Are pumpkins fruits or vegetables?
Botanically, pumpkins are fruits because they develop from the flower of the plant and contain seeds. However, in culinary terms, they are often treated as vegetables due to their savory flavor profile.
What are some lesser-known health benefits of pumpkins?
Beyond being rich in vitamins A and C, pumpkins contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Their high fiber content also supports digestive health.
How did pumpkins become a symbol of autumn in popular culture?
Pumpkins have long been associated with harvest time, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. Their prominence in seasonal dishes, decorations, and festivals has solidified their status as an iconic emblem of autumn.
Need some inspiration?
Check out these videos for some extra inspiration in getting involved!
Also on ...
View all holidays
National Chicken Fried Steak Day
Savor the ultimate comfort food that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect with creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy.
We think you may also like...
National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day
Satisfy your sweet tooth with some gooey, fruity confectionery or make the classic recipe even more of a treat by adding extras such as marzipan.
National Fruitcake Day
Indulge in variations of a classic cake from all over the world or compete to see who can fling this fruit-packed favorite the furthest.
National Passion Fruit Day
Exotic, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this tropical fruit captivates palates with its tangy sweetness and aromatic allure.
