BOStoday’s 2023 pumpkin carving contest winners

We were floored by the creativity of our readers, so it’s our pleasure to hand out our super official pumpkin carving awards in time for the holidays.

A pumpkin carved with a portrait of Mayor Wu and the text "WU" and many pumpkins carved to resemble a sea turtle.

Our favorite submissions emphasized Boston pride and tropical twists.

Photos submitted by Matt B. and Neil C.

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You’ve scooped the seeds and made masterpieces out of pumpkins. Now it’s time for us to reveal the winners for our Pumpkin Carving Contest — and we couldn’t pick just one. Check out the pumpkins below, including our super official awards for the winning entries.

A jack-o-lantern with a portrait of Mayor Wu and "WU" carved into the front.

“Fab-Wu-lous!” | Photo submitted by Matt B.

Best Boston Pride: “Fab-Wu-lous!”

You have to applaud the pun in the title of this entry, but truth be told, it doesn’t even need a name — any Bostonian could recognize this spot-on depiction of Mayor Michelle Wu. Created as a
relief-carved tonal portrait, this pumpkin is polished enough sit inside City Hall.

Many pumpkins carved and placed together in the shape of a sea turtle.

“Honu Halloween” | Photo submitted by Neil C

Most Creative: “Honu Halloween”

We weren’t expecting a submission this innovative to wash ashore. This nod to sea turtles gave our contest a surprising tropical twist, which we’re happy to salute — even during sweater weather.

Thank you to everyone who submitted. Happy Halloween, and we’ll see you next year.

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