Can you feel the chills yet? Looks like Fall is almost over! With the first two months of school over and November in full swing, there’s only one thing more important than anything else—learning the history of the famous jack-o-lanterns. These decorative pumpkins are commonly found around the United States and were originally used in Europe to scare away the Devil.

The story of the Jack-o-Lantern is traditionally known as “Stingy Jack,” and originated in Ireland in the 19th century. According to history.com, the tale begins with Stingy Jack asking the Devil for a drink together. Then, as his name suggests, Jack had no money, so he asked the Devil to turn into a coin to pay for the drink. This decision rebounds against the Devil’s wishes because Jack places the coin beside a silver cross in his pocket. This would prevent the Devil from reappearing in his original form, enraging the Devil. Afterward, Jack freed the Devil under the condition that he would not bother him for a year, and if he died, the Devil was not to claim his soul. 

Throughout his life, Jack managed to fool the Devil many more times and convinced him to keep him safe for more time. Eventually, Jack did die, and God could not accept him into Heaven due to his despicable deeds. The Devil, keeping his word, did not take Jack’s soul and he was left alone. The Devil sent Jack into the night, with nothing but a lit coal to light the way. Jack put the coal into a carved-out turnip and set into the darkness. This inspired the Irish to call Jack Jack of the Lantern(shortened to Jack-o-Lantern). The Irish made copies of Jack’s turnip to honor him, and the tradition was carried to the Americas, inspiring the pumpkin-centered fall culture.

 Now, let’s get into the crafting of these pumpkins - you might need to know this to be Halloween-ready next year! First, take a sharp knife - if you know you aren’t good with knives, ensure you receive adult supervision. Next, cut a small opening into the top of the pumpkin with a circular incision(not too much or you’ll ruin the shape!). After that, scoop out all the seeds and pulp. Then, use the knife to cut eye, nose, and mouth shapes, and ensure the knife punctures the pumpkin's skin. After carving the structure, push out the shapes from the inside of the pumpkin outwards. Finally, place a candle or any other light source inside the pumpkin. Place the “lid” back on the pumpkin and put it in a commonly viewed spot, like your porch or front steps. Your Jack-o-Lantern is completed! I hope you enjoyed learning about the history of Jack-o-Lanterns and how to make a perfect pumpkin.