NATIONAL PUMPKIN DAY

NATIONAL PUMPKIN DAY

National Pumpkin Day recognizes a favored autumn decoration and food on October 26th. Not only do they make great fall decorations, but the pumpkin also completes a variety of tasty recipes. Join a pumpkin competition or visit any of the many fall festivals featuring the beautiful gourds.

#NationalPumpkinDay

By October 26th, we're in a frenzy of pumpkin obsession. We cannot wait for the big November holiday for pumpkin pie. No siree, we need pumpkin everything! Bars, cookies, coffee, cheesecake, pasta, and oatmeal. Pumpkin Chunkin', pumpkin patches, festivals, bake-offs, and television specials. Let's not forget jack-o-lantern carving, too! This fruit grabs Americans' attention.

Pumpkin is native to North America and one of the oldest domesticated plants in the world. Archaeologists have found the oldest domesticated pumpkin seeds in the Oaxaca Highlands of Mexico, dating them to as far back as 7,500 to 5,500 B.C. Native Americans cultivated pumpkins and other types of squash for centuries before European explorers arrived. They were a crucial part of their diet; they ate the flesh, roasted the seeds, and even used the blossoms in their cooking. The dried, hollowed-out shells also served as practical bowls and storage containers.

For the colonists, pumpkins became a vital food source, helping them survive their first harsh winters. This historical connection is why pumpkins are so closely associated with Thanksgiving. The tradition of carving Jack-o'-lanterns, however, was brought to America by Irish immigrants, who originally carved turnips and potatoes. They found the native pumpkin to be much larger and easier to carve, solidifying its place as a quintessential symbol of autumn and Halloween.

Pumpkins are packed with nutrients, but they're not only good for humans. Did you know that pumpkin may be recommended by veterinarians as a dietary supplement for dogs and cats? Since pumpkin is easy to digest, if your pet is experiencing certain digestive ailments, don't be surprised if your vet says to give them pumpkin puree. Poultry also benefits from eating raw pumpkin as a supplement to their regular feed during the winter months to help maintain egg production. As a seasonal food, it sure comes at the right time of year. Since it's packed with vitamin C, it can boost your immune system to fight off those nasty colds, too. 

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PUMPKIN DAY

Ah, pumpkins! They bring to mind wonderful memories and inspire us to artistry. Whether we frame the perfect photo at the local pumpkin patch, carve up the scariest jack-o-lantern or whip up the tastiest batch of pumpkin bars, this is a holiday worth sharing. Roast some pumpkin seeds while the family rakes up those fall leaves. Pour a mug of hot apple cider and bake up your favorite pumpkin recipes, too. Or try a new one. We offer several for you to try! As always, invite someone to Celebrate Every Day® with you, too. Use #NationalPumpkinDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL PUMPKIN DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of this garden squash-related holiday.

Pumpkin FAQ

Q. Who carved the first jack-o-lantern?
A. The tradition of carving vegetables for Halloween has its beginning in Ireland. There, they carved turnips to ward off the devil and evil spirits during the ancient festival of Samhain, also during Halloween. Irish who immigrated to the Americas brought the tradition with them and found the pumpkin suitable for carving. However, carving pumpkins in Ireland has become a more modern practice.