Pumpkin Carving with a Purpose: Eco-Friendly Tips for a Spooktacular Season

October is here, and that means it's time for pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and—our favorite—Pumpkin Fest! But here at Sea Hugger, we’re all about giving our festivities a little eco-friendly flair. So, why not turn your traditional pumpkin carving into something that’s not only fun and creative but also kind to our planet? Let’s dive into some tips for carving pumpkins with a purpose—because even during the spookiest season, we can be green!

Tip #1: Choose Local Pumpkins

When picking out your pumpkins, think local! Head to your nearest farm or farmer’s market to find sustainably grown pumpkins. Supporting local farmers reduces carbon emissions from long-distance transportation and gives you the freshest gourds to carve. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with your community!

Here are some of our favorite local pumpkin patches you can explore with your family and friends!

1. Farmer John’s

2. Andreotti Family Farm

3. Rancho Siempre Verde

4. Bob’s Pumpkin Farm

5. Cozzolino’s 4 C’s Pumpkin Patch

Tip #2: Use the Whole Pumpkin

Every part of your pumpkin can serve a purpose! When you scoop out those slimy seeds, don’t just toss them. Roasting pumpkin seeds makes a delicious, healthy snack—and even better, it reduces food waste. And as for the flesh, think beyond carving and try your hand at some autumn-inspired pumpkin recipes. Pumpkin soup, muffins, or even pie—the possibilities are endless!

Here are some tasty and easy pumpkin recipes to try out with your leftovers!

• Chocolate Covered Roasted Pumpkin Seed Turtle Clusters

• Roasted Garlic Sage Pesto Pumpkin Soup with Spicy Fried Pumpkin Seeds

• Spicy Pumpkin and Pesto Cheese Stuffed Shells

Tip #3: Compost Your Jack-o'-Lantern

Once Halloween is over, don’t let your carved masterpiece end up in the trash! Pumpkins decompose quickly and make excellent compost, enriching the soil for next year’s garden. If you don’t have a compost bin, check out your local community composting programs or simply break your pumpkin down and leave it in your garden bed. Nature will do the rest!

Tip #4: Eco-Friendly Decorations

Instead of buying plastic Halloween decorations that contribute to ocean pollution, consider using natural materials to give your home that spooky vibe. Think hay bales, dried cornstalks, and colorful leaves. Not only are they compostable, but they add a cozy, rustic charm to your Halloween decor.

Check out some of our favorite eco-friendly halloween crafts!

• Halloween Eye Ball Rocks

• Homemade Orange Garland
  

Tip #5: Use Real Candles

When it comes to lighting up your jack-o'-lantern, skip the plastic and opt for real beeswax or soy candles! These natural candles are free of harmful chemicals, biodegradable, and plastic-free. They’ll give your pumpkin that classic warm glow, while keeping your eco-conscious spirit intact. Just remember to never leave lit candles unattended!

Tip #6: Get Creative with Ocean-Themed Designs

Pumpkin carving doesn’t have to be all ghosts and ghouls. Why not showcase your love for the ocean by carving sea creatures into your pumpkins? Imagine jellyfish, sea turtles, or even a spooky vampire squid glowing on your porch! It’s a fun way to spread awareness and spark conversations about protecting our beautiful blue planet.

Tip #7: Join Us for Sea Hugger’s Halloween Clean-Up!

Speaking of protecting the planet, we’re excited to see everyone at this year’s Pumpkin Fest. We are still looking for volunteers for our bike parking booth we'd love to have you join! Come carve pumpkins, pick up litter, and help make our coastlines cleaner and greener. Keep an eye on our Instagram this month for spooky ocean facts and more eco-friendly Halloween ideas. Let’s turn spooky season into a time for positive change!