Pumpkins in local farms are a signal for all people throughout their neighborhoods that Halloween is upon us. No Halloween is complete without having a jack-o’-lantern in a windowsill or pumpkins at the steps of a house to greet trick or treaters. Before you head off to you local farm be sure to follow these helpful hints to find the best pumpkin for your Halloween celebration.

CHOOSING THE PERFECT PUMPKIN
· Make sure that the pumpkin you choose is the right size and shape that fits the design you choose. If the pumpkin happens to be softer and lighter in color it will be easier to carve.

· Make sure the pumpkin is evenly colored all around and had no signs of mold. Signs of mold are a telling sign that the pumpkin will not last long and is not a good candidate to carve.

· Make sure not to carry the pumpkin by its stem for if the pumpkin is too heavy will break and slip out of your hands.

CARVING THE PERFECT PUMPKIN
· First draw an outline for the lid of the pumpkin. Once it is drawn and to you liking cut the top out cutting at a 90 degree angle in a tooth formation.

· Clean and scrape the inside out of the pumpkin. Make sure the inside of the pumpkin is well cleaned out for it will help in the carving process. Be sure to put the pumpkin seeds on a baking tray so that they can be baked. After baked and with some added salt they will make for a delicious seasonal treat.

· Attach the pattern that you have chosen for your pumpkin. Make sure it is attached well before you start in the carving process.

· Outline the pattern on the pumpkin by using a toothpick or the outlining tool in any pumpkin carving kit.

· After the pumpkin is outlined it is ready to be carved.

· Be sure to watch when using any sharp instrument in the carving process.