
2020 has turned into a year fulfilled with UNIQUE and unexpected events. Kids were out of school early, most summertime fun and travel were canceled, and kids looked forward to starting a new school year that has been a virtual challenge for most. But there can be a few fun and somewhat normal activities for your family to look forward to this fall. Halloween is just a few weeks away, and while parties and trick or treating might not be on your agenda, carving pumpkins could become a spotlight event.
Plan For 2021 As Well

While it is too late to grow your pumpkins for this year, consider it for next year as many varieties will thrive in a large container. And with the warm climate here in Phoenix, your children are sure to harvest a few massive specimens for next year’s carving event. Picture a 25-gallon tree bucket or even a small baby pool filled with soil. Just be sure that you have the space to allow the vines and foliage to explore and expand. Add a few drip emitters, and your kids will have a great time seeing the fruits of their labor mature. Just be sure to put a reminder in your phone to begin gathering your gardening materials in the spring!
Know Your Options

For a fabulous pumpkin carving event in 2020, you will need to locate pumpkins at the store or a pumpkin patch near you. But first, you will want to brush up on the varieties that will turn a plain old jack o’ lantern into a UNIQUE work of art that your kids will remember for years. Some of your options include:
CORNFIELD PUMPKINS- These are an heirloom variety and offer a traditional, more muted shade of orange. The size and shape vary from very bulbous to a tall and more trim oval. And the biggest bonus is that these are perfect for making a decadent pumpkin pie after the holiday.
JACK O’LANTERN PUMPKIN- As the name implies, these are the pumpkins we all picture when thinking about a carving party. They are pleasantly rounded and have a festive, rich orange color.
SUGAR PIE PUMPKIN- This name is truth in advertising. These smaller pumpkins top out at 6 to 7 pounds but have a much sweeter flavor if their second life will be dedicated to cookies, cakes, or pies.
NEW MOON PUMPKIN- This is the ghostly white pumpkin that can reach a size of 75 pounds! Most are flatter than traditional spherical varieties, but the thick white flesh will provide an ominous glow when carved.
GOOSEBUMP PUMPKIN- If you are looking for something more interesting than a smooth-skinned run of the mill pumpkin, Goosebump is the ticket. These are perfect for the witch or zombie that you want to have ready-made warts and facial irregularities.
PORCELAIN DOLL PUMPKIN- This pumpkin is far from traditional. The soft pink to peach-colored skin could be out of a Victorian painting. When carved, the delicate color adds a sense of old-world charm to your holiday.
Create Your UNIQUE Work Of Art
The best part about carving pumpkins is that there are no rules. Your family can collaborate on one pumpkin, or everyone can display their own sense of creativity independently. But the fun comes from a family-friendly activity that will provide great memories and fun, even in 2020. Think about adding some funny or scary music to the event, and of course, remember to have some Halloween themed snacks on hand. The best place to enjoy this activity will be your outdoor living space. This location makes clean up easy and stress-free.

If you discover that your outdoor space is lacking during this fun family time, call 480-969-1911 or click here to schedule a free consultation with a UNIQUE designer to create a howling great space for next year’s Halloween festivities.