What is Pumpkin Day 2016? How to carve a Jack-o’-lantern like a pro for Halloween

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Have you carved your Halloween pumpkin yet?

Americans have long celebrated National Pumpkin Day on October 26 in honour of the humble orange vegetable. 

But Pumpkin Day has gone global this year with social media users around the world are sharing images using #PumpkinDay. 

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Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver posted: “There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of pumpkin soup for #pumpkinday.” 

As well as sharing pumpkin recipes, people across the globe are carving pumpkins in time for Halloween on Monday October 31. 

If you want to carve like a pro, make sure that you chose a large pumpkin that is round, free from blemishes and has a thick wall. 

Most people just use a serrated knife but professionals also employ special carving tools such as those used to sculpt clay. 

The first thing you need to do is cut off the crown of the pumpkin then scoop out the seeds and fibres. 

It is traditional to carve a scary Halloween face in the pumpkin but some people use other designs such as animals or a spooky Halloween scene. 

Some Americans have been inspired by the US election this year and have created Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton pumpkins.

If you need inspiration, try taking a look at Jack-o’-lantern on Pinterest. 

You can draw your design straight on to the pumpkin or tape on a template and punch holes through the stencil into the surface. 

Be very careful not to break the pumpkin while carving out the shape. If you make a mistake, you can use cocktail sticks to reattach pieces. 

When you are happy with your pumpkin, simply put a tea light inside and replace the top.