If you are looking for an easy Halloween party, consider an alternative. A friend of ours throws a pumpkin carving party most years. I think it’s a great idea, especially if Halloween falls mid week. You can have the party on the weekend, and do something simpler mid-week when it’s actually Halloween. The pumpkin carving party is great for families, the entertainment is built right in to the party, and it doesn’t require much food or decoration.
Everyone brings a pumpkin. Outside, our friend has a table set up with knives and scoops for gutting the pumpkin. She has another table for carving supplied with all the tiny knives, saws, stencils, and patterns. I do think it’s very smart to have this in her backyard instead of her house.
The outdoor fire pit is her backyard is my children’s favorite part. They love the idea of roasting marshmallows anytime, but it’s extra fun at a party. The fire also provides some warmth for those of us busy carving our pumpkins in the cold October air.
People wander from inside where the food and central heat are, to outside with the carvers. It’s a relaxed party. The children can play or help with gutting and carving. Talking with other people as we carve pumpkins is a lot of fun. Some of the people do very elaborate and inspiring designs. Some do a very simple carving. And some come up with their own original designs. It’s really fun to see all the different possibilities.
At the end of the night we light all the jack o’lanterns at the same time and step back and enjoy our work. Picture a few dozen carved pumpkins grouped together, all glowing magically in the October air. The pumpkin lighting is a truly a spectacular end to the evening.
More for your Halloween party:
Last Minute Halloween Cupcakes
Hosting a Frugal Halloween Party
Pumpkin Carving – Stencils Are Your Friend