Capri Cafaro explores the history and traditions that make pumpkins a symbol of fall. She visits a farm during harvest season to see how pumpkins are grown, from heirloom varieties to those destined for canned puree. Capri also experiences a festival where thousands of jack-o’-lanterns light up the night, celebrating the deep-rooted connection between pumpkins and community traditions. In the kitchen, she learns how pumpkins and winter squash are used in both sweet and savory dishes, from a hearty soup to a traditional mole featuring toasted pumpkin seeds. Capri also discovers the significance of pumpkins in Indigenous foodways and their role in sustainable agriculture. Whether carved, cooked, or celebrated in festivals, pumpkins represent a rich heritage that continues to thrive in Illinois, shaping the flavors and traditions of the season.
