U-pick is great!

Go pumpkin hunting! In Laval, many growers open their fields to the public forU-pick. It's the perfect opportunity to unearth the finest specimens that will end up in front of your house and on your plate!

Ferme Marineau offers U-pick pumpkins and squash, plus a host of other fun activities. Go bowling with squash or play tic-tac-toe with pumpkins. And don't forget to try one of their delicious homemade autumn spice products.

Ferme Forget also offers U-pick pumpkins and squash. You can also visit the mini-farm or take a tractor ride. Ferme Forget's fall festivities are sure to please the whole family!

You can also find THE perfect pumpkin without picking your own at Ferme Chez Vaillancourt and Ferme Turcot et fils. Plus, stock up on delicious seasonal vegetables.

Gourmet pumpkin!

Whether served as a soup, purée, gratin, stew or dessert, it lends itself to a wide variety of autumnal recipes. Rich in vitamin A, phosphorus and zinc, it is packed with antioxidant properties. The seeds are just as nutritious. Try the tasty recipe for pumpkin pie with caramelized walnuts on the "Saveurs de Laval" website. A real treat!

Did you know?

The more colorful the squash, the deeper the orange, the richer it will be in beta-carotene, a vitamin with antioxidant properties.

There are 25 varieties of pumpkin in Quebec.

To cut squash more easily, reheat for two minutes in the microwave. This will make the skin more supple.

Don't forget to bring home several pumpkins, as they can keep for several months if they're kept out of the fridge and away from cold, heat and light. Happy Halloween and, above all, bon appétit!

Find other good places to buy pumpkins, gourds and other autumn produce.