What Does It Mean If You See A Teal Pumpkin On Someone’s Porch?
Every fall, porches across neighborhoods start filling up with pumpkins the closer we get to Halloween. Among the usual orange and carved faces, you might spot one of a new color, a teal pumpkin. At first glance, it might just seem like a fun design choice, but did you know there’s a deeper meaning behind it? Here’s what it means if you see a teal pumpkin on someone’s porch this year.
What It Signifies
A teal pumpkin signals that a household is offering non-food, or allergy-safe, treats on Halloween. This is especially important for kids with dietary restrictions who may not be able to safely enjoy most traditional candy offerings, much of which contains common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten. A teal pumpkin lets parents and children know they have a safe option during trick-or-treating.
Part of the Teal Pumpkin Project
The idea comes from the Teal Pumpkin Project, started by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). It encourages families to include non-food or sensitivity-safe items in their trick-or-treat offerings. Think stickers, small toys, or glow sticks for toys, and licorice, skittles, or lollipops for treats. The project is a national movement, and participation is growing in many local communities!
Why It’s Helpful
For parents of children with allergies, Halloween can be stressful. They often have to check every candy label or even avoid trick-or-treating altogether. The Teal Pumpkin Project helps reduce that anxiety and gives kids a chance to fully take part in the tradition without fear. It also teaches other children about empathy and inclusion in a real, visible way.
How to Take Part Yourself
Joining the Teal Pumpkin Project is easy. You just need to place a teal-colored pumpkin outside your home and have some non-food and/or allergy-safe food items ready. That’s it! You can paint your own pumpkin or buy one, and there’s also print a free sign from FARE’s website to help explain what it means for those who might be curious.
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So, if you see a teal pumpkin this Halloween, know that it stands for more than just unique festive flair. It’s a welcome sign for children who often feel left out and a reminder to make space for everyone. If you’re moved to put one out yourself, you’ll be helping make the holiday more fun, and safer, for more families in your neighborhood. That’s something worth celebrating.
Daniel Mitchell
