Everywhere you look there are pumpkin-spiced foods and drinks for sale. If you, like us, wonder what this obsession is all about, read our new article, "A Century-Long Passion for Pumpkin Spice." Try making the real pumpkin spice mix at home—to add to pumpkin pie or sprinkle in your jack-o'-lantern. Learn more in your free Almanac Companion—plus, check your Halloween forecast!
Sincerely, your Almanac editors
For pottage and puddings and custards and pies
Our pumpkins and parsnips are common supplies,
We have pumpkins at morning and pumpkins at noon,
If it were not for pumpkins we should be undoon.
–Pilgrim verse, circa 1633
Here’s how to clean and cook pumpkins two different ways. Plus, if you’re cooking your own pumpkins, it’s just one more step to make homemade pumpkin purée! Enjoy the fall flavor and healthy goodness of fresh pumpkin!
Get the recipes that folks rave about! We invited Almanac readers to share their best recipes—the favorites served at family gatherings, potlucks, parties, and supper tables. You’ll love the heartwarming, humorous, and true stories that these cooks tell, too!
There’s pumpkin-spice everything in stores this time of year. Who invented pumpkin spice? Or, where did this spice blend come from? Find out (and tell your friends) the answers to these questions about one of our most popular fall flavors.
How do you cut back perennials? Some can be cut down after the first killing frost; others can be left to help birds and beneficial insects during the winter months. Let’s talk about which perennials to tackle, which to leave, how to cut back perennials properly, and other ways to prepare your...
For those who can never get enough of tulips, daffodils, and spring bulbs, try potting them up to force into cheerful bloom this winter in the house. See our tips on how to force bulbs and a timetable for when to pot up different types of bulbs.
This homemade pumpkin spice recipe takes just minutes to mix up—with several ingredients that you may already have in your pantry! Then add this fragrant mix to pies, pancakes, roasted fall veggies, lattes, oatmeal—and even your carved pumpkin!
Animal-shaped microwave heating pads that double as a gentle ice packs. Provide natural hot and cold comfort! Microwave for moist heat therapy to relax stiff muscles and improve circulation and flexibility.
