Halloween parties for families must strike a delicate balance: exciting enough for older kids but not too scary for the little ones. Four years ago, my family discovered a party format that worked out so well, it has become a much-anticipated October tradition -- a pumpkin-decorating party. Each year, usually the Sunday before Halloween, our friends arrive toting their carefully chosen pumpkins. We set out tools, supplies, and some easy-to-eat fare, put on spooky music, and let everyone get to work. From toddlers to teens, our guests carve, paint, and decorate their masterpieces, hoping to take home the coveted grand prize (some families spend days devising their pumpkin design). Even though the party format is straightforward, we've learned a few ways to really make the event stand out. Here, then, are our top tips.

1) SPREAD THE WORD WITH FUN AND SIMPLE INVITATIONS

Set the mood for your carving fest with an easily mass-produced invitation that doubles as an award tag. Fold in half a rectangle of orange construction paper -- ours was roughly 5 1/2 by 6 1/2 inches -- and cut a half pumpkin on the fold, as you would a valentine heart. Unfold it and write out the details using a marker. We make our event BYOP (Bring Your Own Pumpkin) and hold it the Sunday afternoon before Halloween. Be sure to mention prizes to draw Sunday afternoon quarterbacks off the couch!

2) THINK "PUMPKIN GOO" WHEN SETTING UP

Outside among the changing leaves on an Indian summer afternoon is the best spot for a carving party (both for the atmosphere and the mess). But be ready to move to a garage, basement, or covered porch if the weather turns lousy. Your artists need space to work, so set up picnic or folding tables in the backyard and cover each with a plastic tablecloth or newspaper. Not only does it protect the table, it also rolls up the spilled pumpkin goo for easy cleanup when the party's over. And speaking of goo, be sure to set a roll of paper towels on each table for messy hands.