Your first question, upon hearing about the Cult of the Great Pumpkin, was likely “Is this for real?” That’s a perfectly reasonable response.

The answer to that question: Yes, it’s for real. And no, it’s not.

Is this an actual cult that literally worships a sentient gourd? Nope. That’d be crazy. There are enough crazy cults in the world, thank you.

Is this a group of people who really, sincerely love Halloween? Who love the iconography and imagery of the holiday, the dark, spooky and creative energies it channels, and who want to see the Great Pumpkin take his rightful place next to Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny? ABSOLUTELY.

So don’t think about it too hard. Don’t take it too seriously. As long as your love of Halloween is sincere, well, that’s all we ask.