Pumpkin carving timing depends on your climate and how long you want the jack-o’-lantern to look fresh. Here’s a practical guide to help you decide. Answer in brief

• Cool, dry climates: carve 3–7 days before Halloween for a good balance between freshness and time to enjoy. If you want it on Halloween itself, carving the day before is common.
• Warm or humid climates: carve 1–3 days before Halloween to prevent wilting and mold, and keep it indoors or in a cool spot.
• If you’re aiming for a last-minute display: carve on Halloween day or the night before, but be prepared for the pumpkin to soften quickly in heat.

Why these timings work

• Freshness vs. decay: pumpkins are at peak firmness a few days before carving, but carving too early increases the chance of overnight decay or drying out, especially in warm conditions.
• Longevity tricks: after carving, keep the Jack-o’-lantern in a cool, shaded place; consider using electric candles instead of open flame to reduce heat; clean out as much pulp as possible and dry surfaces thoroughly; some people spray a saline or mild antiseptic solution to slow mold, or rub a light coating of Vaseline on cut edges to reduce moisture loss.

Tips to extend display life

• Choose a sturdy pumpkin with a heavy weight relative to size and free from soft spots.
• After carving, soak the interior and cut edges in a mild bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach per quart of water) for a few minutes, then dry completely.
• Keep the pumpkin off soil and away from direct sunlight; place on a dry surface and in a cool, shaded area when possible.
• Use an LED or electric light rather than a real candle to minimize heat and delay decay.
• If you notice soft spots, mold, or an off odor, it’s time to retire that pumpkin.

If you’d like, share your local climate (cool/cold vs. hot/humid) and whether you plan to display outdoors or indoors, and the exact Halloween date you’re aiming for. A tailored plan can be provided.