Pumpkin carving isn’t just for kids—it’s the perfect excuse for couples to slow down, sip cider, and share a night of laughter. At The Inn on Gitche Gumee, a pumpkin-carving evening becomes a romantic fall tradition: simple, playful, and full of autumn charm.
Here’s how to plan the ultimate cozy couples’ pumpkin-carving party during your North Shore getaway.
1. Pick the Perfect Pumpkins
Half the fun is in the hunt. Stop at a local pumpkin patch or farm stand on your way to the inn.
- Engwall’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch – A Duluth favorite with rows of bright pumpkins and festive fall activities.
- Farmer Doug’s – Just north of town, this family farm offers gorgeous gourds and friendly country charm.
Pro tip: Pick one pumpkin each, plus a “bonus pumpkin” for a team design.
2. Set the Scene on Your Porch
At Gitche Gumee, your cabin porch comes with sweeping Lake Superior views—the perfect backdrop for a fall date night.
- Cover the table with newspaper or a rustic fall tablecloth.
- Lay out your carving tools (a simple kit does the trick).
- Add snacks like kettle corn, caramel apples, and a bowl of candy corn.
- Keep it cozy with flannels, blankets, and twinkle lights.
3. Sip & Snack as You Carve
Pumpkin carving is more fun with a little flavor.
- Warm up mugs of spiked apple cider or mulled wine.
- Add a plate of local cheeses and crackers for easy grazing.
- Don’t forget the caramel dip—it’s perfect for apple slices and pumpkin seeds you roast later.
4. Play, Compete, and Laugh
Carving side by side sets the mood, but a little competition adds sparkle.
- Put on your favorite fall playlist (acoustic folk or Halloween classics).
- Set a timer for a “carve-off.”
- Snap photos of your creations with the lake as your backdrop.
The winner? Whoever can make the other laugh hardest with their pumpkin face.
5. End the Night by Candlelight
When the carving’s done, light up your pumpkins and let them glow against the autumn night. Sit back on your porch with one last round of cider, watching Superior’s waves shimmer under the moon.
Why Gitche Gumee Is Perfect for Your Pumpkin Memories
At Gitche, fall is more than a season—it’s a feeling. With quiet porches, lake breezes, and cabins made for comfort, every autumn evening becomes an occasion. Your pumpkin-carving party isn’t just a craft—it’s a cozy memory you’ll look back on for years.
Make your pumpkin memories here—reserve your fall weekend at Gitche Gumee.
