Organize the perfect pumpkin-carving party this Halloween
Right now, markets and roadside stands are bursting with pumpkins fresh from local farms. Thanks to the ingenuity of seed companies who’ve brought out dozens of new varieties, these seasonal fruits now come in all shades of orange, red-orange, green and even white with smooth or textured skins, making them the ultimate accent for fall décor.
Getting friends and family together for a pumpkin-carving party can be a great way to celebrate the season and get ready for Halloween. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make planning easy.
CHOOSE THE BEST PUMPKINS FOR CARVING
Check out the rind. It should be firm and uniform in color without cuts, bruises or blemishes.
Make sure the stem doesn’t look brown and dry. And don’t pick the pumpkin up by its stem, since even a healthy one can break off. Lift it from underneath instead.
Give the pumpkin a knock. A thumping sound means the pumpkin is solid, with no internal rot or soft spots.
PICK THE RIGHT DATE
Carving jack-o’-lanterns too early will mean they spoil before Halloween night. Cut pumpkins last about 4 or 5 days, so plan your party for the weekend before the holiday.
CARVING THE PUMPKINS
Step 1: With a serrated knife held at an angle, carefully cut an opening around the stem. Make a small notch in the back to guide you when putting the lid back on.
Step 2: Using a large spoon, remove the pulp and scrape the insides clean of stringy material. Have kids separate the seeds from the pumpkin innards while adults do the carving. Keep the seeds to be toasted later.
Step 3: Draw a face on your pumpkin with a wax pencil or washable marker. Water-soluble markers are best for kids because they can try out different designs, wiping mistakes clean.
Step 4: Carve out the face carefully with a serrated knife. Add a tea light or battery-powered candle.
HALLOWEEN MUSIC TO SET THE MOOD
Ten favorite tunes to get your guests rocking:
- “Beetlejuice: Main Titles,” composed by Danny Elfman
- “Ghostbusters,” Ray Parker Jr.
- “In the Midnight Hour,” Wilson Pickett
- “I Put a Spell on You,” Nina Simone
- “I Want Candy,” Bow Wow Wow
- “Spooky,” the Classics IV
- “That Old Black Magic,” Ella Fitzgerald
- “Thriller,” Michael Jackson
- “Werewolves of London,” Warren Zevon
- “Witchcraft,” Frank Sinatra
FOOD AND DRINK FOR A FALL FEAST
Here’s a buffet menu that will work well for any size crowd. Choose regular and gluten-free breads and crackers to satisfy all your guests. Add fresh dips and veggies to round out the table and offer more vegan and vegetarian choices.
- Pumpkin-Leek Soup with Warm Harvest Bread
- Roasted Salted Pumpkin Seeds
- Warm Mulled Cider
- Caramel Apples
THIS FALL, JERRY’S BRINGS THE PARTY TO YOU
Why spend gorgeous autumn days in the kitchen when the catering pros at Jerry’s Kitchen can handle everything for you?
We make birthdays, family reunions, anniversaries, and even big corporate events more fun with fresh, delicious favorites, including our award-winning Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. Our crew offers expert catering services for clients in Doylestown and Greater Philadelphia.
To book a food truck or traditional catering services for your next event, call us now.
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