Should You Place Candles Inside Jack-o-Lanterns? Experts advise to think twice

We have a lot of jack-o’-lanterns on our porches, walkways, and stoops to show that it’s pumpkin season.

But first, we’re going to show you the safest way to light up your display. We asked two pumpkin experts for their best advice on how to light your jack-o’-lanterns safely this year.

Should You Use Real Candles in Jack-o’-Lanterns?

Jodi Zombolo of the Chicago Botanic Garden says that when lighting a jack-o’-lantern, it’s best to use candles that don’t have flames. More practically, they’ll stay lit longer, and there won’t be a fire risk.

“I love the warm glow of a real candle, but flameless ones are safer and more useful, especially when pets or kids are around,” says Dustin Miller of the Dallas Arboretum. I also like that they don’t melt in hot weather if it doesn’t feel like fall yet.

Miller says that candles inside carved pumpkins could start fires if they are left near things that can catch fire, like dry leaves, wooden surfaces, and porch decorations. In order to be safe, he doesn’t use flames in the pumpkins he uses for displays at home.

Candle Alternatives

Choose battery-powered or electric LED lights, which Zombolo says come in a huge range of colors, to keep it safe while still adding all the holiday cheer.

String lights, lanterns that run on batteries, and even glow sticks can be used instead of candles to light up a jack-o-lantern.

There’s no doubt that they’re safer than flames, but it’s important to remember that the effect won’t be the same.

“Today’s LED options have come a long way in making a cozy glow,” says Miller. “They might not fully replicate the flickering warmth of a real candle.” “Newer LEDs with a flicker effect can also give off a similar nostalgic vibe without the safety concerns.”

Jack-o’-Lantern Tips from the Pros

Miller and Zombolo talk about how to get the most out of your pumpkins this year.

Carve with Wildlife in Mind

Wild animals need to be kept away from pumpkins if you want them to stay in good shape over the long term. Zombolo says that the team at the Chicago Botanic Garden has found that animals are less likely to eat your pumpkins if you carve them from the bottom instead of the top and make sure to remove all the pulp and seeds.

Be Sure to Ventilate

Not enough air flow can make real flames less bright, but you need good air flow no matter what you’re using to light your pumpkin. Carving your pumpkin from the bottom can also help you reach this goal because it lets water escape through the bottom instead of pooling there and rotting the pumpkin too soon.

Keep It Out of the Sun

Miller says that direct sunlight is another thing that can make a pumpkin go bad before Halloween. Depending on where your porch is located, you may need to move your jack-o’-lantern during the day and put it back on the steps of your porch at night.

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