What is a Jack-o'-lantern?
Q: What is a Jack-o'-lantern?
A: A Jack-o'-lantern is a carved pumpkin, turnip, beet, or potato that is traditionally associated with Halloween.
Q: Where did the tradition of carving Jack-o'-lanterns originate?
A: The tradition of carving Jack-o'-lanterns originated in Scotland and Ireland in the 19th and 20th centuries. People would carve lanterns from large yellow turnips.
Q: What is the origin story behind the Jack-o'-lantern?
A: The origin story behind the Jack-o'-lantern comes from Irish lore. It tells of a man named Stingy Jack who cheated the devil several times. When he was leaving hell, the devil threw him a glowing coal which he placed in a hollowed out turnip to make his first "Jack-o'-lantern".
Q: How are pumpkins used to make Jack-o'-lanterns?
A: To make a Jack-o'-lantern, the top of the pumpkin surrounding the stump of its vine is cut off and used as a "lid" when it's completed. The seeds and pulp inside are scooped out using either a spoon or one's hands before being roasted and salted for snacking. Finally, a face is carved into one side of it before placing either a candle or flashlight inside it and replacing its lid slightly askew to keep it lit up.
Q: Where are lit jack o' lanterns typically placed?
A: In America, lit jack o' lanterns are typically placed on porches, porch steps or windows to welcome trick or treaters on Halloween night.
Q: How long does an already carved jack o' lantern last for?
A: An already carved jack o' lantern usually only lasts for about one or two days before beginning to rot away due to its lack of edibility once carved up.
Q: What do some people do with stolen jack o' lanterns?
A: Some people steal their neighbor's jack o' lanterns and proceed to smash them in streets or drop them from bridges as an act of mischief making on Halloween night.
