On the hunt for the perfect pumpkin?

USA Today and The Kitchn have some tips for you:

• Check the pumpkins for soft spots and signs of mold.  Don’t forget to check underneath and press on it with your thumbs.  If it gives a little, the pumpkin isn’t fresh.
• Look for one that has its handle or stem intact.  A dark green stem is a sign it was picked recently compared to a brown stem.
• Tap the outside of the pumpkin.  A hollow sound is means it’s more likely to be easier to carve.
• Look for pumpkins with flat walls and no deep ribs which are better for carving.  Skip the tall, oblong pumpkins which typically have stringier flesh that makes precise cuts difficult.
• When you think you’ve found the one, set it on a flat surface to be sure it sits upright and doesn’t lean to one side…unless you want that!

Happy carving, kids!