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National Pumpkin Day is celebrated annually on October 26th, marking a seasonal appreciation for pumpkins as autumn begins. October, the Halloween month, wouldn’t be complete without a day dedicated to pumpkins, those round, smooth, and vibrant yellow or orange squashes. Pumpkins are more than fun decorative vegetables. National Pumpkin Day celebrates pumpkins, honoring their history, origin, traditions, and the nutritional benefits they offer.
“My most memorable meal is every Thanksgiving. I love the food: the turkey and stuffing; the sweet potatoes and rice, which come from my mother’s Southern heritage; the mashed potatoes, which come from my wife’s Midwestern roots; the Campbell’s green-bean casserole; and of course, pumpkin pie.” – Douglas Conant
National Pumpkin Day Observance
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 26 | Saturday |
| 2025 | October 26 | Sunday |
| 2026 | October 26 | Monday |
| 2027 | October 26 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | October 26 | Thursday |
History of National Pumpkin Day
The origin, history, and founder of National Pumpkin Day are unknown. However, pumpkins have a rich tradition. People commonly think of pumpkins and Jack-o’-lanterns when it comes to Halloween, but they aren’t inherently connected. A pumpkin is a type of squash, and October is both the start of the harvest season and the month of Halloween. The harvest period marks the beginning of autumn, and pumpkins are typically harvested during this time, which likely led to the October celebration of National Pumpkin Day.
Pumpkins, like other squash, are believed to have originated in North America, with the oldest pumpkin-related seeds found in Mexico, dating back to 7000–5500 BC. The word “pumpkin” comes from the Greek word pepon, meaning “large melon.” The French adapted it to pompon, the British changed it to pumpion, and later American colonists transformed it into “pumpkin.”
Today, pumpkins are widely cultivated for both commercial and recreational use. In Canada and the United States, pumpkin pie is a traditional part of Thanksgiving meals. However, canned pumpkin purée and pie fillings are often made from different types of winter squash. Around Halloween, pumpkins are commonly used as decorations and carved into Jack-o’-lanterns.
The pumpkin is versatile and edible in many forms, with most of its parts being consumable. It’s an excellent source of provitamin A, beta-carotene, and vitamins A and C. Fresh pumpkins contain water, carbohydrates, small amounts of fat, and protein.
Pumpkins can be grown on every continent except Antarctica. Recently, white pumpkins have become more popular in the United States. The country produces approximately 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkins each year. Pumpkins are typically round and smooth, with slightly ribbed skin, and contain seeds and pulp within a thick shell. “Giant pumpkins,” developed from large South American squash through efforts by botanical societies and enthusiastic farmers, can weigh over a ton. In 1986, the United States extended protection to giant squash germplasm, highlighting its agricultural significance.
Other Celebrations on October 26
October 26 is also celebrated as
How to Celebrate National Pumpkin Day
Celebrating National Pumpkin Day is easy! Start by purchasing fresh pumpkins for use at home. You can prepare delicious pumpkin dishes for your family or visit your favorite restaurant to enjoy treats like pumpkin pie or pudding. Try your hand at pumpkin carving and decorate your home with carved pumpkins, especially in the spirit of Halloween. Take time to learn about pumpkins—their history, origins, and various uses. Don’t forget to share your Pumpkin Day celebrations on social media using the hashtag #NationalPumpkinDay.