Pumpkins are the classic symbol of fall. From carving jack-o’-lanterns to baking pumpkin pie, these bright orange gourds are everywhere this time of year! But there’s more to pumpkins than just spooky faces and tasty treats.

Here are some fun and fascinating pumpkin facts that will make you see this fall favorite in a whole new way!

1. Pumpkins Are Actually a Type of Fruit

Even though we often think of pumpkins as vegetables, they’re technically fruits! This is because they have seeds inside, just like apples, pomegranates, or watermelons.

2. They’re Part of the Squash Family

Pumpkins belong to the same plant family as zucchini, cucumbers, and butternut squash. They’re basically cousins!

3. Pumpkins Can Grow Really, REALLY Big

The largest pumpkin ever grown weighed more than 2,700 pounds... that’s heavier than a small car! Imagine trying to carve a face into that.

4. Not All Pumpkins Are Orange

While orange is the classic color, pumpkins can also be white, yellow, green, and even striped! White pumpkins are especially popular for painting and decorating.

5. Pumpkins Are Super Nutritious

Pumpkins aren't just tasty, they're good for you, too! Pumpkins are packed with vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, which helps keep your eyes healthy.

6. The First Jack-O’-Lanterns Weren’t Made From Pumpkins

A long time ago, people in Ireland carved faces into turnips and potatoes to ward off evil spirits. When Irish immigrants came to America, they discovered pumpkins were perfect for carving.

7. Pumpkins Can Grow on Almost Every Continent

Wherever you go in the world, you’re likely to find pumpkins—unless you head to Antarctica, where it’s just too cold for them to grow.

8. Pumpkin Seeds Make a Tasty Snack

Don’t throw out the seeds when you carve your pumpkin! Toasted pumpkin seeds are a crunchy and healthy snack that can be seasoned with salt, cinnamon sugar, or even garlic.

9. There Are Over 45 Different Types of Pumpkins

From tiny mini pumpkins that fit in your hand to giant prize-winning varieties, there’s a pumpkin for every purpose: carving, cooking, decorating... you name it!

10. Pumpkins Are Part of Fall Celebrations Everywhere

Pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween! They play a big role in Thanksgiving pies, fall festivals, and even fun events like pumpkin bowling and pumpkin patches.

Celebrate Fall Fun at Metropolis Resort

Pumpkins are just one of the many things that make fall so special! At Metropolis Resort, you can enjoy a fright-free Halloween experience with themed decorations, scavenger hunts, and seasonal treats.

From Chaos Water Park to Action City, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy this autumn. Come visit us and make some magical fall memories!

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