If you’re looking for a great pumpkin to carve this Halloween season, the best place to look is your local pumpkin patch. The best varieties for carving are Connecticut Field, Howden and Baby Bear pumpkins.

Be sure the pumpkin you choose is symmetrical enough to rest squarely on a flat surface. Pass over any with bruises, cracks or broken stems, because they tend to deteriorate quickly and try not to carve your pumpkins earlier than a day or two before Halloween.

Here are a few tips:

• Flatten a spot in the base of the pumpkin for the candle but avoid digging too deep because the pumpkin becomes prone to rot.
• Make sure the flame is not too close to the top of the pumpkin.
• To prolong the life of the jack-o’-lantern, seal in moisture by coating all cut surfaces with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil, or cover it with a damp towel when not on display.
• Consider giving smaller children stickers, tempera paint, or markers to decorate their own pumpkins.

For  a full list of great carving tips check out:

Perfect Pumpkins on FamilyFun.com