Part 3/7:
As the pumpkin cheesecake bakes, the discussion shifts towards the origin of pumpkins as symbols in Halloween traditions, specifically the jack-o'-lantern. The video traces the evolution of this practice from ancient history, suggesting that the early custom of carving faces into vegetables originated as a method to ward off evil spirits.
Initially, turnips or other gourds were used for this purpose, originating from Irish customs associated with the Celtic festival of Samhain. Over time, as immigration patterns shifted, pumpkins became the vegetable of choice, especially in the United States, where their larger size and ease of carving provided a more visually impactful alternative.