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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at CMU chapter.

If there’s anything that reminds me of October, it’s the pumpkin. With holidays such as Halloween and National Pumpkin Day (October 26) coming up, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the “pumpkin spirit.” Here are some pumpkin decoration ideas and foods to fuel your pumpkin ambitions:

1. Painted Pumpkins

If you’re not a fan of carving but still want to decorate, try painting your pumpkins this year! Simply buy some acrylic or spray paint in a color of your choice and paint about three coats. If you’re artistically inclined, you can also add some designs and patterns. Just make sure you have enough time on your hands for them to dry (disclosure: it will probably take a couple hours). 

2. Junk Pumpkins

Want to do something different with your pumpkin decorating but don’t have extra cash to do it? Search through your garage’s junk drawer to find some interesting nuts and bolts to make one-of-a-kind “junk” pumpkins.  If you need more ideas, you can view them here.

3. Pumpkin Bars

If you love cream cheese frosting and pumpkin bread, this recipe is for you! This is the perfect dessert for getting into the “pumpkin spirit” and perfect for sharing with friends (or maybe just for yourself!). Try Paula Deen’s recipe here.

4. Pumpkin Spice Latte

Everyone loves the Starbucks version, so why not make your own? Try this recipe from www.thekitchn.com.

5. Elaborate Pumpkin Carvings

Although everyone loves a good ol’ classic pumpkin carving, it’s also refreshing to see something other than a Jack O’Lantern face. Check out some of these awesome, mind-blowing works of art here.

Do you have any cool ideas for getting into the “pumpkin spirit?”

Emma Shi is a freshman at Carnegie Mellon University majoring in Decision Science (so she can learn how to make a decision, hopefully) and a self-diagnosed shopaholic. Along with contributing to Her Campus, she is also on the varsity swim team and in Tartan Athelete Fellowship. Her passions include all things pink, French fries, cake, skiing, New York City, and the clearance rack. She has secret ambitions of becoming an extreme couponer or the next Lauren Conrad. Unfortunately, she doesn't have an Instagram or Twitter account, but you will most likely find her on campus keeping it classy (aka probably being awkward). 
I am a junior Materials Science and Engineering mjaor at Carnegie Mellon University, and I am also minoring in Professional Writing and Business. I am a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma.  I love TV and trying out new beauty products.  I follow E! on Twitter so that I can stay up-to-date on celebrity news.  I'm royal-obsessed, and I love Kate Middleton's style.  I'm kind of a Sephora addict, and I could easily spend hours there.  I also spend way too much time on Pinterest.  Finally, I love hockey and all Pittsburgh sports.