How to Pick the Best Pumpkin

Fall isn't complete without a trip to the pumpkin patch. But with so many sizes, shapes, and colors to choose from, how do you know which pumpkin is best for your needs?

If pumpkin pie is on the menu or your porch needs a jack o' lantern glow up we have the perfect guide to picking the pumpkin that fits your fall.

Best Pumpkins for Carving

When it comes to carving, you'll want a pumpkin that's large, sturdy, and bright enough to show off your design once it's lit from within. These varieties are classic choices for Halloween fun.

Magic Lantern Pumpkins

• Brilliant orange color with a classic green stem
• Strong walls and large size make them perfect for jack-o’-lanterns
• Ideal for families who want that traditional carved look

Ghost Pumpkins

• Chic all-white skin stands out from the crowd
• Glows with an extra-spooky vibe when lit
• A modern twist on the classic Halloween pumpkin

Best Pumpkins for Cooking & Baking

Not all pumpkins are destined for the porch. Some are born for the kitchen. These smaller, sweeter varieties have dense flesh and rich flavor that make them perfect for pies, soups, and roasts.

Sugar Pumpkins (Pie Pumpkins)

• Sweet, compact, and easy to handle
• Excellent for pies, breads, and soups
• Can also be hollowed out as festive serving bowls

Long Island Cheese Pumpkins

• Smooth tan skin with deep orange flesh
• An heirloom variety prized by bakers
• Classic choice for pumpkin pie

Red Warty Pumpkins

• Bumpy red-orange skin makes them eye-catching
• Sweet, string-free flesh is great for roasting
• A fun mix of decorative and delicious

Best Pumpkins for Decorating

Sometimes you just need the right pumpkin to set the scene. These varieties bring color, charm, and character to any fall display.

Fairytale Pumpkins

• Old-fashioned look with tan skin and deep ridges
• Whimsical, rustic vibe
• Large size (20–30 pounds) makes them perfect for porches

Cinderella Pumpkins

• Rounded, bold orange-red skin
• Instantly recognizable, storybook style
• Great for stacking in displays

Pumpkins & Squash for Unique Flavors

Looking for something different? These varieties may not be the first you think of, but they’re versatile, flavorful, and bring variety to your fall cooking and decorating.

Hubbard Squash

• Large, teardrop shape with bluish-gray skin
• Weighs 20–30 pounds
• A flavorful substitute for winter squash in hearty recipes