A Whimsical Fall Tradition Full of Clues, Laughter, and Magic

Autumn is in full swing—the air is crisp, the leaves are crunching underfoot, and the scent of cinnamon and bonfires lingers just enough to make you smile. It’s that magical time of year when the world slows down, sweaters come out of hiding, and every moment feels a little more golden. And in our home, that means one thing: it’s time for the annual pumpkin hunt.

This isn’t just a game, it’s a tradition. One that started with a few tiny pumpkins tucked behind couch cushions and has grown into a full-blown adventure that winds through the yard, sneaks into the kitchen, and even tiptoes into the laundry room. Each pumpkin holds a clue, and each clue leads to the next. It’s part mystery, part scavenger hunt, and all heart.

So if you’re looking for a way to celebrate the season, create some memories, and spark a little joy, this pumpkin hunt is for you. Let the clues lead you, let the laughter carry you, and let autumn wrap you in its warmest embrace.

Let the hunt begin!

How It Works:

· Hide 10-20 small pumpkins in various locations—indoors, outdoors, or wherever your little ghouls roam. No pumpkins? No problem. The clues are shaped like pumpkins, so we’re calling it festive enough.

· Attach a clue to each pumpkin that leads to the next. Keep it simple or spooky, depending on your crowd!

· The final pumpkin holds a special prize or treat.

· BONUS – Before the hunt begins, read a short pumpkin-themed story to get your little hunters in the spirit. It sets the scene, builds excitement, and turns the whole adventure into a magical fall moment.

Clue Trail:

I whipped up a sample set of clues and an answer sheet to kickstart your pumpkin pursuit, ready to print and primed for adventure. Feel free to tweak, twist, or totally transform them to fit your turf. After all, every great hunt deserves a local flavor!

The Grand Finale:

Once all pumpkins are found, reward your hunters with:

• A pumpkin-shaped cookie
• A small toy or trinket
• A spooky story time session
• Or even a DIY pumpkin decorating station!

✨ Tips to Make Your Pumpkin Hunt All-Ages Friendly ✨

Tiered Clues by Difficulty

• Color-coded pumpkins: Use different colors or stickers to indicate clue difficulty (e.g., orange for easy, green for medium, black for tricky).

• Dual clues: Attach two clues to each pumpkin—one simple rhyme for younger kids, and one riddle or puzzle for older participants.

Easy Clues for Little Ones

• Use visual cues like arrows, drawings, or photo hints.
• Keep clues short and rhyming: “I’m soft and warm, where you take a nap—look under the pillow for a pumpkin trap!”

Challenging Clues for Older Kids & Adults

• Incorporate wordplay, riddles, or trivia: “I hold stories without speaking, and adventures without moving. What am I?”(answer: A book)
• Add logic puzzles or scavenger-style tasks: “Find something round, something blue, and something that rhymes with ‘boo’ before your next clue.”

Team Play

• Pair younger kids with older siblings or adults to solve clues together.
• Create family teams with shared clue sheets and roles (e.g., clue reader, pumpkin spotter, prize carrier).

Physical & Mental Balance

• Alternate between active clues (e.g., “Run to the tallest tree!”) and thinking clues (e.g., riddles or memory games).
• Include rest stops with cider, snacks, or storytelling to keep energy up.

Age-Appropriate Prizes

• Toddlers: Stickers, plush toys, mini pumpkins
• Kids: Halloween trinkets, glow sticks, candy
• Teens: Gift cards, spooky accessories, mystery boxes
• Adults: Seasonal treats, candles, or even a “Best Pumpkin Sleuth” certificate

Whether your pumpkins are hidden in pillow forts or perched beneath porch steps, this hunt is more than just a seasonal game—it’s a celebration of curiosity, connection, and the little joys that make autumn unforgettable. So gather your crew, grab your clues, and let the rustling leaves be your soundtrack. Because when pumpkins lead the way, adventure is never far behind.

With coffee in one hand and a clue in the other,

💛Bethany

Ready to play? Download the full printable clue set below—including blank pumpkin templates so you can write your own riddles, jokes, or challenges. Make it yours, make it magical, and let the fall fun begin!