Candle in a Pumpkin: An Easy DIY for Cozy Fall Decorating
A candle in a pumpkin is an easy fall decorating project made by hollowing out a small pumpkin and placing a votive or LED candle inside. These simple pumpkin candle holders are perfect for Thanksgiving tables, fall centerpieces, mantels, and cozy seasonal displays.
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A candle in a pumpkin is one of the easiest ways to add warmth and charm to your fall decorating. With just a mini pumpkin and a simple votive candle, you can create an elegant seasonal accent that's perfect for Thanksgiving tables, autumn dinners, or cozy evenings at home.
I made these using heirloom tiger stripe pumpkins because I loved their beautiful green and golden markings, but orange or white mini pumpkins work just as well. Whether you place one at each guest's seat or group several together as a centerpiece, they add a warm glow that instantly makes a table feel welcoming.
In this tutorial, I'll show you how to make a candle in a pumpkin step by step, share a few tips I've learned along the way, and offer simple decorating ideas to help you style them throughout the fall season.
At a Glance: Candle In A Pumpkin
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- Learn how to make a candle in a pumpkin in just a few simple steps
- Use heirloom, white, or orange mini pumpkins
- Choose between votive or LED candles
- Beautiful for Thanksgiving place settings and fall table decor
- Easy DIY with minimal supplies
- A simple way to add warmth and charm to your autumn home
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Choosing the best pumpkin
The pumpkin you choose can completely change the finished look of this project. I love using mini heirloom pumpkins, like the tiger stripe pumpkins featured here, because their natural colors and patterns make each candle holder feel unique. White pumpkins create a clean, elegant look, while classic orange pumpkins add traditional fall charm.
Look for a pumpkin with a flat bottom so it sits securely on your table, and choose one that's large enough to comfortably hold a votive candle. Whether you use a fresh pumpkin from the farm stand or a faux pumpkin you'll enjoy year after year, this simple project works beautifully with either option.
One of my favorite things about decorating with heirloom pumpkins is that they don't need much. Their natural colors and textures do most of the work.
Choosing the right candle
A standard votive candle is my favorite choice because it fits securely inside most mini pumpkins and creates a warm, inviting glow. If you'll be using these during a dinner party or Thanksgiving meal, consider placing the votive in a small glass holder for added stability.
LED votive candles are another great option, especially if you'll be displaying the pumpkins for several hours or using them around children or pets. They provide the same cozy ambiance without an open flame.
Safety Tip: If you're using a real flame, never leave a candle unattended. Place the pumpkin on a heat-safe surface away from napkins, dried foliage, or other flammable decorations. For worry-free entertaining, LED votive candles create the same cozy glow without an open flame.
Supplies you'll need
Here's what you'll need to whip up these cozy pumpkin candles: Grab some mini pumpkins (I'm using tiger stripe ones, but notes of white pumpkin or orange work great too), a few votive candles (unscented is my go-to), A Lenox 1-3/16 inch hole saw (optional but helpful) and basic carving tools like a sharp knife and spoon. If you've got a pumpkin carving kit, even better. Don't forget to lay down some newspaper for easy cleanup.
Quick safety reminder: always cut away from yourself, keep your fingers clear of the blade, and keep an eye on any kids helping out. That's it - nothing fancy!
How to place a candle in a pumpkin
- Prep your pumpkin
Give your mini pumpkin a quick wash and dry. No need to go overboard - just make sure it's clean. Gather your supplies.
- Make the initial cut
Break off the stem then use a Lenox hole saw to make your initial hole. This handy tool drills a 1-3/16" hole effortlessly into the top of the pumpkin. I learned this trick a few years back and it's a game-changer - way easier than trying to saw through with a knife from the get-go.
- Mark your cut
Take a Sharpie and trace around your votive candle on top of the pumpkin, using the initial hole as a guide. This gives you a perfect outline for sizing - trust me, it's a game-changer for getting it just right.
- Widen the opening
Now, grab your knife and carefully widen that hole to match your Sharpie outline. You want it just big enough to fit your votive candle.
- Scoop it out
Time to get your hands dirty. Scoop out the insides of the pumpkin. A spoon works great for this. Don't worry about getting every last bit - just enough so your candle sits nicely.
- Drop in the candle
Choose a votive that fits snugly in the opening. Too small and it'll rattle around, too big and, well, it won't fit. Pop it in and you're done!
Tip: Want to take your craftiness to the next level? Check out my guide on making candles in a crock pot. You can pour the melted wax directly into these pumpkins instead of using premade votive candles. It's a fun way to customize your "candle in a pumpkin" creations!
Decorating with a candle in a pumpkin
One of my favorite things about these mini pumpkin candle holders is how versatile they are. Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving dinner or simply decorating for the season, they add a warm, welcoming glow to almost any space.
Use them as Thanksgiving place settings
For holiday dinners, place one candle in a pumpkin on top of each salad plate or just above each place setting. It's a simple detail that makes every guest feel special while adding soft candlelight to the table. I love pairing mine with vintage dishes, linen napkins, and a few scattered rose hips or autumn leaves for a natural, collected look.
Create a cozy fall centerpiece
Group several pumpkin candle holders down the center of your table for an effortless fall centerpiece. Mix different sizes and varieties of pumpkins with pinecones, branches, acorns, or seasonal greenery to create layers of texture. As the candles begin to glow, they instantly make the table feel warm and inviting.
Whether you're decorating for Thanksgiving, a dinner party, or simply celebrating the season, these little pumpkin candle holders are an easy way to bring a touch of autumn to your home.
Either way, these pumpkin candles add that perfect touch of warmth to your fall table. And the best part? They work just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as they do for the holiday season.
Variations to try
One of the best things about making a candle in a pumpkin is how easy it is to customize. A few simple changes can give the project a completely different look.
Try different pumpkin varieties
Mini heirloom pumpkins, white pumpkins, and classic orange pumpkins all work beautifully. I especially love heirloom varieties because their natural colors and unique patterns make each candle holder feel one of a kind.
Experiment with different candles
A simple unscented votive is my favorite because it lets the pumpkin remain the focal point. If you'd like to add a seasonal fragrance, choose a lightly scented fall candle. Pumpkin spice, apple cider, or cinnamon all create a cozy atmosphere without overwhelming the table.
Use LED candles for longer displays
Battery-operated LED votives are a wonderful alternative if you'll be displaying your pumpkins for several hours or prefer not to use an open flame. Many flicker just like real candles, making them a beautiful and worry-free option for dinner parties and holiday gatherings.
Love pumpkin projects as much as I do? Check out these other fun pumpkin DIYs: create a Grandin Road Inspired Vine Pumpkin with natural textures, craft a Pumpkin Centerpiece Featuring Hydrangea for stunning table decor, Host a Pumpkin Painting Party for creative gatherings, Make a Fun Succulent Pumpkin that lasts all season, design an Easy Pressed Flower Pumpkin with botanical elegance, or explore 7 Ideas for Pumpkins with Flowers for versatile floral displays.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. A votive candle works well because it's contained and fits securely inside most mini pumpkins. Never leave a burning candle unattended, and consider using an LED votive if you'll be entertaining for several hours.
The candle will last as long as its burn time allows, while the pumpkin itself typically stays fresh for one to two weeks indoors. Display it in a cool location away from direct sunlight for the longest life.
Mini pumpkins are ideal because they're the perfect size for standard votive candles. Look for one with a flat bottom so it sits securely on your table.
Absolutely. Faux pumpkins are a great option if you'd like to enjoy your candle holders year after year. Simply cut an opening large enough for a votive or LED candle.
Fall is in the air! Checkout these other fall decorating ideas
A candle in a pumpkin is one of those simple projects that instantly makes a home feel ready for fall. Whether you use one as a Thanksgiving place setting, group several together as a centerpiece, or tuck one onto a mantel, it's an easy way to add warmth and seasonal charm without a lot of time or expense.
I hope this project inspires you to gather a few mini pumpkins and create your own glowing fall display. If you make one, I'd love to hear how you styled it or see your finished table in the comments.
Happy decorating (and hosting!), friends!
