2009 Pumpkin Carving

Think pumpkin-patch-chic when staging the decor for a pumpkin carving party. Place a wheelbarrow next to the front door, fill it with pumpkins, and when guests arrive, ask them to pick one. For a rustic feel, throw some hay in with the pumpkins. Inside the house, set up carving stations: cover tables and counters with old newspapers, carving tools, and place lots of garbage bags nearby. Leave the chili in a big pot on the stove and stack black bowls next to it. Fill jack-o'-lantern bowls with chili toppings and candy. Display the pumpkin cake on a black cake stand and invite guests to put their beer in an oversize ice bucket. A single bouquet of Fall flowers is festively elegant. Don't forget to stock up on tea lights. Once everyone is done carving their pumpkins, place a tea light in each one and set them outside on the porch.

Not only is my annual pumpkin carving party about creating cool pumpkins, it's also about celebrating the flavors of Fall.

To get people in the mood to party, I'll be pouring a potent punch made from pear nectar and sparkling apple cider. It's fruity, bubbly, and refreshing — what more could you ask for in a punch?

In case people want to imbibe something other than hard alcohol, I've asked my guests to bring an assortment of seasonal ales and sparkling sodas. To check out the easy punch recipe, which would be welcome at any large event, read more

Along with a hearty Fall meal, at my annual pumpkin carving party, I like to serve a pumpkin themed dessert.

In the past I've done ice cream sandwiches and pumpkin bars, but this year I've been all about cakes, so I'll be whipping up a relatively easy pumpkin cake.

The batter is seasoned with orange zest and the frosting is a decadent blend of caramel and cream cheese.

The resulting cake is festive and seasonal and can be made several days before the party. To take a look at the recipe I plan on using, keep reading.

From 2003 to 2006, every October I hosted an annual pumpkin carving party. In 2007, I threw a huge Halloween bash, and last year, I didn't do anything!

Now, I've decided it's time to bring back my beloved pumpkin carving dinner. I supply the pumpkins and a hearty Fall dinner and ask everyone to bring a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer. Since the party is all about creating interesting pumpkin designs, I like to serve a menu that guests can enjoy at their leisure.

For starters, I'll offer an orange and black cheese ball and spicy sausages wrapped in pizza dough.

A huge pot of vegetarian chili will bubble on the stove, and in between carving pumpkins, guests can grab a bowl and top it with an assortment of items like cilantro, avocado, and sour cream. A side of jalapeño cornbread muffins are ideal for dipping. To look at these recipes, read more