Is there anything more traditional on Halloween than a ‘Jack-o-lantern’?
The tradition is said to have originated in Ireland – where lanterns carved out of turnips or potatoes and illuminated with candles were believed to ward off evil spirits on All Hallow’s Eve.
In North America, squash or pumpkins eventually replaced turnips as the lantern of choice, and carving a jack-o-lantern became a matter of fun, and creativity. The internet is now full of pumpkin-carving ideas, ranging from the scary, to amazingly detailed and challenging designs.
On Wednesday, teens were invited to participate in a free pumpkin-carving event at the BWG Leisure Centre, and take home their jack-o-lanterns just in time for Halloween.
Reali’s No Frill donated the pumpkins for the event, said staffer Bianca Mendes.
“We provide all the supplies, and the inspiration,” she added, while the youth provided their own ideas, creativity and carving skills.
