At the beginning of fall, thousands of Americans go on a trip to their local grocery store or pumpkin patch to purchase the most popular vegetable during the season: pumpkins! Pumpkins are a famous symbol of fall and the star of many traditions during this season. Front porch displays of spooky lanterns that light the night, kitchens that smell of warmth and cinnamon, and brisk morning walks that contain coffee with a hint of fall flavor. Pumpkins are rooted deep within our culture, inspiring many fall traditions.

One of the most common traditions is pumpkin carving. Pumpkin carving comes from Irish traditions, mainly from the Samhain Celtic festival. This festival marks the beginning of the harvest season and the start of winter. It was said that during this time the passage between the living and the dead was open. To scare off the dead, people would carve turnips and other vegetables into scary faces, and then place a candle in them to ward off evil spirits. These scary vegetables would also light the path for the living at night. When Irish immigrants came to the Americas, they continued this tradition, but they found that carving pumpkins was easier than carving turnips. This tradition has since transformed into the jack o’ lanterns that we know today, which vary with artistic differences. But as people are beginning to explore more fun alternatives, pumpkin carving is no longer the only attraction. Alternatives include pumpkin painting and beaded pumpkins. Both alternatives allow the pumpkins to stay alive for longer and still offer a cool display.

Some are obsessed with pumpkin flavor. Although pumpkin spice actually contains no pumpkin, it is loved by millions and is recognized as the drink of fall. The pumpkin spice craze began in 2003, when Starbucks released the Pumpkin Spice Latte. With social media’s help, this seasonal drink took the world by storm and led to an era of pumpkin spiced themed candles, drinks, and sweets. Today you see many new takes on pumpkin flavored treats from local coffee shops like The Homestead Cafe, where you can also enjoy an extraordinary view from the tram with your seasonal drink. No matter what you do, one thing is clear: pumpkin spice is more than just a flavor. It is a warm feeling and comfort during this season.

Pumpkin spice set the stage, but nothing quite says autumn like a comforting slice of pumpkin pie. While pumpkin pie is considered to be mainly a Thanksgiving staple, it is enjoyed throughout fall and is made with several different spices, including pumpkin spice. Pumpkin pie is believed to have first been created in the Americas. It then traveled to Europe, where the first known recipe was written by Amelia Simmons in her book called “American Cookery,” which featured a filling similar to that of pumpkin pie filling. It didn’t gain popularity until shortly thereafter. Although this recipe has changed over the years it has kept its true warmth and spirit. Today pumpkin pie is used to celebrate family and gratitude during the autumn months.

Of course, to enjoy all these traditions, you have to start at the source: pumpkins! One great thing to do during fall is go to a local pumpkin patch with friends or family. A great pumpkin patch to visit is Wagner’s Farmland Experience located in Corrales, New Mexico. Wagner’s offers other activities besides pumpkin picking such as: a petting zoo, hayrides, and a corn maze.

From decorations to flavors, pumpkins are an icon during this fall season. Make a few memories and enjoy yourselves this autumn!