Question 1: Where in Canada is the pumpkin field seen in today’s image?
- British Columbia
- Saskatchewan
- Manitoba
Correct Answer: British Columbia
Fact: Pumpkin patches like this one on the outskirts of Victoria, British Columbia, offer activities like corn mazes, hayrides, and pumpkin picking. The carved pumpkin, or jack-o’-lantern, evokes names like will-o’-the-wisp, friar’s lantern, and hinkypunk. In the ‘Harry Potter’ series, hinkypunks are mischievous, one-legged creatures that use eerie lanterns to mislead travelers.
Question 2: Which US state grows the most pumpkins?
- Indiana
- Illinois
- Florida
Correct Answer: Illinois
Fact: In 2022, Illinois led in pumpkin yield, producing 634 million pounds, more than the next five most productive states combined. The state’s favorable climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for growing pumpkins. Morton, Illinois, is often called the ‘pumpkin capital of the world,’ and it hosts a pumpkin festival every year to celebrate the region’s agricultural success.
Question 3: What’s the name of the Pumpkin King in ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’?
- Dr. Finkelstein
- Jack Skellington
- Oogie Boogie
Correct Answer: Jack Skellington
Fact: Jack Skellington is the protagonist of Tim Burton’s 1993 stop-motion animation. Known as the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, Jack is a skeleton who becomes disillusioned with the monotony of Halloween. His fascination with Christmas leads him to attempt taking over the holiday, resulting in chaos and comedy.