When pumpkins start to show up in the local grocery store in large numbers, we know it’s officially fall season. For many, it also means it’s time to pull out the pumpkin spice everything, from candles to lattes. With Americans paying over half a billion dollars annually for pumpkin goodness, it’s obviously a cult favorite this time of year.
There’s something magical about the time of year when sweaters come out, pumpkins and other squash are everywhere, and we transition to the next season after a hot summer. Here’s why we love pumpkins so much and the traditions that follow them.
1. Fun Halloween Origins
The tradition of carving pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns originates from an Irish folktale about a man named Stingy Jack. He tricked the devil and was cursed to wander the earth with only a burning coal inside a hollowed-out turnip to light his path. When Irish immigrants came to America, they found pumpkins—a bigger and more accessible substitute for turnips—and adapted their jack-o’-lantern carving tradition to their new environment.
Fun Halloween folklore just adds to the magic of a season filled with imagination.
2. Pumpkin Patches
Pumpkins can also be a great source of nostalgia. Many of us have memories of visiting a pumpkin patch to select the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating (even if it took hours). It’s a beloved fall tradition for families across the United States, filled with hay rides, corn mazes, and lots of fun.
Ultimately, it’s a chance to enjoy the crisp autumn air, take scenic photos, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
3. Pumpkin Art
Carving pumpkins isn’t just for kids. People of all ages love to participate in this Halloween tradition. It can be as simple as a face or an elaborate scene; it’s fun to try new things.
Pumpkin carving contests and exhibitions showcase the incredible talent and creativity that can transform pumpkins into art.
4. Fall Fashion
From cozy sweaters and scarves to pumpkin-shaped earrings and handbags, there are countless ways to incorporate this seasonal trend into your wardrobe. Of course, the hues of orange, red, and yellow are a must, too.
Dressing up in these themes and colors invokes a sense of coziness.
5. The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)
Who can get through October without having the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte or PSL? For many, it has become synonymous with fall. Its combination of coffee, milk, pumpkin spice flavor, and whipped cream encapsulates the comforting essence of the season in a cup.
Introduced by Starbucks in 2003, the PSL quickly gained a cult following and inspired countless imitations and variations. This is thanks to its combination of warm spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, which has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, aka feel-good hormones.
6. Pumpkins and Baking
Baking with pumpkin spice is yet another cherished fall tradition. As the weather turns cold, it’s a practical way to enjoy time indoors and warm the house with delicious scents.
Favorites include pumpkin bread, muffins, and cookies. fill kitchens with warm aromas and delicious flavors.
7. Pumpkins and Home Decor
Pumpkins and other gourds make great decor pieces for your front door, porch, or even dining room table. They can be left as is or added with other fall accents and colors. With the right decor and scents (like pumpkin spice), you’ll be ready to indulge in all the cozy activities of fall, like eating rich foods, watching favorite shows, or simply relaxing.
9. The Versatility of Pumpkin
While pumpkin pie is a classic fall dessert, its versatility extends far beyond its traditional use in pies. Pumpkin can be incorporated into various savory dishes, such as soups, stews, pasta sauces, and curries. Its subtle sweetness and creamy texture complement a wide range of flavors, making it a versatile ingredient for culinary experimentation.
From roasted pumpkin seeds sprinkled on salads to pumpkin puree blended into smoothies, there are countless ways to enjoy this nutritious and flavorful vegetable throughout the fall season and beyond.
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JayDee Vykoukal is a writer, author, mom, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. She has been writing about everything motherhood and health-related since 2018 when her first daughter was born, and she wanted to stay home. She loves to research new topics and fun facts with her kids to teach them about the world.
JayDee Vykoukal is a writer, author, mom, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. She has been writing about everything motherhood and health-related since 2018 when her first daughter was born, and she wanted to stay home. She loves to research new topics and fun facts with her kids to teach them about the world.
