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When Should You Carve Your Pumpkin?

Carve too early and it caves in before the big day. Carve too late and you're rushing. Tell us your event date, we'll tell you the sweet spot.

Event / display date

Halloween, a party, a display — whatever day it needs to look its best.

Where will it sit?

Ideal carving window

Tips to make it last longer

Coat cut edges with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to slow moisture loss.
Keep it out of direct sun and away from heat — shade adds days to its life.
A diluted bleach spray (1 tsp bleach per quart of water) on cut surfaces slows mold.
Bring it inside overnight if hard frost or freezing temps are expected — a hard freeze turns flesh mushy once it thaws.
Battery LED lights instead of a candle keep the inside cooler, which slows rot.