How to Make a Jack O Lantern from a Turnip

In Ireland, people celebrated Halloween long before the tradition became popular in North America. This festival was called Samhain or Celtic New Year. At Samhain, people celebrated by carving turnip Jack-o'-lanterns.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• turnip
• marker
• knife
• spoon or melon baller
• newspaper

1. Slicing the top Slice off the top of the turnip.
2. Hollowing the turnip Scoop out the insides of the turnip with a spoon or a melon baller.
3. Making a face with a marker Draw a face on the turnip with a marker.
4. Carving the face on the turnip Carefully carve out the face on the turnip.
5. Finished turnip jack o lanterns Check your finished turnip jack o lantern! Make any adjustments now.
6. Turnip Jack O Lanterns Place a small candle inside and enjoy!
7. The Legend Legends have it that the "jack-o-lantern" got its name from a stingy and mean old man, named Jack, who when he died was too mean to get into heaven. When Jack went to hell he was meet by the Devil who gave him a piece of burning coal and sent him away. Jack placed the burning coal in a turnip to use as a lantern to light his way. The legends claim that Jack is still walking with the lantern looking for a place to stay.

Tips & Warnings

• Turnips are much harder to carve than pumpkins.
• A pumpkin 'saw' would help carve the face. You can buy these at any local Walmart.
• Since turnips are much harder to carve, always have adult supervision!
• Be careful of candles and flames!