One of the traditions of Halloween is the carving of pumpkins.  I know I’ve carved pumpkins for many years, especially as a child, and I’ve always wondered why we would cut up something that makes such a delicious pie for a decoration.  I mean, I’m sure it’s all part of the grand tradition of wasting food, but why pumpkins, why October, and why not any other kind of vegetable? 

Well, the New York Times answers all these questions and more in their City Room blog entry The Tale of the Green Jack-o’-Lantern.  It’s a must-read for anyone even remotely curious about the origins of the obscure and amusing Halloween tradition of using big orange pumpkins as decorations, instead of just something to munch on.  On behalf of Irish immigrants everywhere:  you’re welcome.