One of the funniest things about Turnip Jack O Lanterns is that they were often used as a prank! People would carve these scary faces and then place them in their neighbors' windows to give them a good fright. Can you imagine waking up to a glowing turnip head staring back at you?
In the 18th century, the Irish would also use these turnip lanterns to make wish lanterns. They'd carve out the turnip, add a candle inside, and then make a wish as they floated the lantern down a river. How's that for a unique birthday wish?
turnip – Tony O'Neill
