Pumpkin Carving By Ray Villafane

Carving gourds into elaborately decorated lanterns dates back thousands years to Africa. They were intentionally brought to the New World via the prehistoric migration through Asia. A toxic variety squash is nicknamed 'pot death' from the Bible passage II Kings 4:39- 41. A gourd is featured in Renaissance religious paintings next to a symbolic apple. Folk traditions using gourds in supernatural contexts is ancient and continuous.
The tradition carving a lantern started in the UK. However it was traditionally carved from a swede or a turnip. They were carved on All Hallows' Eve and left on the door step to ward f evil spirits. An fering or, as we know know it, a "treat" would also be commonly left, as it was feared if you didn't the demons and spirits would fiddle with property or live stock (play a "trick"). Once the tradition moved to the USA it was adapted to the carving a pumpkin as these were more readily available and easier to carve. The ritual "trick or treating" was soon invented to re-create the coming demons and ghouls on the night to dwellings requesting a treat (which is now traditionally given as candy) or a trick would be played. The demons and ghouls are now course children dressed up to represent them.