Field to Front Porch: The Real Work Behind America’s Pumpkins
Every autumn, the humble pumpkin rolls into the spotlight, glowing on porches, sweetening pies, and spicing up lattes from coast to coast. What started as an old Irish tale of “Jack of the Lantern,” once carved from turnips, has sprouted into a true American tradition and a multi-million-dollar industry.
Across more than 68,000 acres, U.S. farmers grow about 1.4 billion pounds of pumpkins each year. Illinois reigns supreme, producing 485 million pounds in 2024, more than the next four top states combined. Ninety percent of Illinois’ crop goes straight into cans of pie filling from processors like Libby’s.
According to the American Farm Bureau’s Market Intel, pumpkins generated over $274 million in value in 2024. But these cheerful orange orbs don’t come easy. Farmers battle weather, pests, and rising costs, even renting bee hives to make sure every blossom is pollinated.
Still, when October nights glow with smiling jack-o’-lanterns, it’s proof that American creativity and farm grit keep this symbol of fall shining bright.
