ulhistory.bsky.social

22 October 2026 19:57

Irish folklore tells of Stingy Jack, who tricked the Devil and was doomed to wander the earth for eternity. People carved frightening faces into turnips to ward off his wandering spirit. When Irish immigrants brought the tradition to American, pumpkins became the lantern of choice! 🎃🎃

ulhistory.bsky.social

22 October 2026 19:57

Have you carved a pumpkin yet? I look forward to it every year! But as you battle the never-ending sea of seeds, have you ever wondered where this tradition came from? 🎃👻 📷: Smithsonian Museum 📷: @ellencoleman.bsky.social #HI6171 #PublicHistory #Halloween #IrishHistory

ulhistory.bsky.social

22 October 2026 19:56

Last year I visited Pumpkins After Dark, and it was amazing! There were over a thousand pumpkins carved and displayed in all sorts of designs. 🎃 Have you ever visited a pumpkin display like this? 📷: Pumpkins After Dark 📷: @ellencoleman.bsky.social #HI6171 #PublicHistory #Halloween #IrishHistory

ulhistory.bsky.social

22 October 2026 19:56

Fruits and nuts were also part of the festive flare. 🥜🍏 Would you still give apple bobbing a go today?👻 📷: Irish Myths

ulhistory.bsky.social

22 October 2026 19:56

Hands up if you remember bobbing for applies at Halloween!! This isn't just a modern party game. The National Museum of Ireland records apple bobbing and 'apples on a string' among traditional Samhain games. 🍎🎃 #HI6171 #PublicHistory #Halloween #IrishHistory