Pumplicht

Pumplicht is a German term that translates to "pumpkin light" or "pumpkin lantern." It specifically refers to the tradition of carving faces into pumpkins and placing a light source inside to illuminate them. This practice is most commonly associated with Halloween celebrations.

The custom of carving pumpkins originated in Ireland, where people would carve turnips or potatoes to ward off spirits. When Irish immigrants brought this tradition to America, they discovered that pumpkins, indigenous to North America, were larger and easier to carve, leading to the widespread adoption of pumpkins for this purpose. The act of carving a pumpkin typically involves cutting off the top, scooping out the seeds and pulp, and then carving a design, often a face, into the side. A candle or, more recently, an electric light is then placed inside to create the illuminated effect.

Pumplicht serves as a decorative element and a symbol of the autumn season and Halloween festivities. The practice is popular among children and adults alike, with intricate designs and simple faces being created. The glowing, carved pumpkins contribute to the spooky and festive atmosphere of Halloween night.