Choose a fresh, firm pumpkin with no soft spots or cracks
Wash the pumpkin thoroughly before carving
Dry it completely after washing
Cut from the bottom instead of the top if possible
Remove all seeds and stringy pulp
Scrape the inside walls smooth and thin
Apply petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to cut edges
Spray the inside and cut surfaces with a diluted bleach solution
Keep the pumpkin in a cool place when not on display
Refrigerate it overnight if space allows
Bring it indoors during hot weather
Avoid direct sunlight
Avoid placing it near heat sources
Use LED candles instead of real candles
Mist the pumpkin with water daily
Reapply petroleum jelly to cut edges as needed
Store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator between uses
Soak the pumpkin in cold water for a few hours if it starts drying out
Dry it well after soaking
Carve it as close to display time as possible
Replace it if it becomes moldy or rotten