Illinois produces more pumpkins than any other state in the country. In 2022 alone, the state harvested a staggering 634 million pounds of pumpkins. Nearly 16,000 acres of Illinois farmland are dedicated to growing pumpkins, and for good reason—our climate and soil are practically perfect for them. Central Illinois, especially around Peoria, is known for its rich soil, which makes it ideal for growing canning pumpkins. These pumpkins end up in many of our favorite fall treats, from pies to soups, adding a warm, comforting flavor to seasonal dishes.
At the center of Illinois’ pumpkin pride is the small town of Morton, known as the “Pumpkin Capital of the World.” Over 85% of the world’s canned pumpkin is processed right in this town, making Morton a big player in the pumpkin game. If you’ve ever made a pumpkin pie from canned pumpkin, there’s a good chance it came from Morton. Most of the pumpkins processed in Morton are the Dickinson variety, which is sweeter and better suited for cooking.
While pumpkins may be a fall favorite in the U.S., their history goes back much further. The earliest evidence of pumpkin seeds dates back to around 7000 BC in Mexico, where Native American tribes were among the first to cultivate them. For them, pumpkins were a versatile crop used for seeds, shells, and even medicinal purposes. The word “pumpkin” itself comes from the Greek word “pepon,” meaning large melon. Over time, this humble fruit has evolved into a staple of American fall, loved for its versatility and symbolic connection to the harvest season.
Pumpkins also have a unique connection to Halloween. The tradition of carving vegetables into lanterns actually began in Ireland, where people carved turnips to ward off evil spirits. When Irish immigrants brought the tradition to America, they discovered that pumpkins were much easier to carve, and the modern jack-o'-lantern was born. Today, pumpkin carving is a beloved Halloween activity, with families and communities coming together to create glowing works of art each fall.
Pumpkins are also incredibly nutritious. Packed with vitamins A and C, they offer health benefits that boost your immune system, improve vision, and contribute to glowing skin. The seeds are also a great source of protein and healthy fats. So, while we may enjoy pumpkins in pies and lattes, they can also be a healthy addition to your meals year-round. Pumpkin soups, roasted seeds, and purees offer a delicious and nutritious twist to your diet.
Illinois farmers have made significant economic contributions through pumpkin farming. In fact, pumpkins have helped create a thriving agritourism industry in the state. Every fall, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and corn mazes draw in thousands of visitors, generating revenue for local communities. Farms across Illinois host fall festivals that allow families to experience pumpkin picking, sample seasonal foods, and enjoy a day outdoors. These events create lasting memories for families and help support the local economy.
It’s also worth noting the impact of the pumpkin on sustainability. Pumpkins are one of the most environmentally friendly crops to grow. They require less water than many other crops and leave behind nutrient-rich organic matter that helps nourish the soil. After Halloween, many communities have embraced the idea of composting pumpkins instead of throwing them away. This simple act reduces waste and enriches local soil, allowing pumpkins to give back to the earth in more ways than one.
National Pumpkin Day is a day to celebrate the cultural and agricultural significance of pumpkins. So, this October 26th, take a moment to appreciate the humble pumpkin. And if you’re in Illinois, you can take a little extra pride knowing that you live in the pumpkin capital of the world.
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