Halloween DIY: Polka Dot Pumpkin Ice Bucket

Halloween is just around the corner! Ashley Pepitone is visiting today from Camp Makery with just the trick to keep your La Crema treats chilled this Halloween. There is nothing scary about this DIY—the best part is that anyone can do it!

This fun Halloween ice bucket adds a festive touch to your celebrations, and there is nothing scary about this DIY—the best part is that anyone can do it! 

Materials and Tools Needed 

Ready to get started on your polka dot pumpkin ice bucket? Here’s a handy list of materials and tools you’ll need to bring this festive project to life. Don’t worry—it’s all pretty straightforward! 

• Foam Crafting Pumpkin: Choose a size that can comfortably hold a wine bottle. A pretty white pumpkin will really make those copper polka dots pop! 

• Acrylic Paint: Go for metallic copper for that trendy look, but feel free to explore other colors that match your Halloween theme. 

• Sponge Brushes: These are perfect for dabbing on your paint and creating those cute polka dots. You can find them in different sizes to add variety to your design. 

• Craft Knife or Scissors: Use this to cut the top off your pumpkin. Make sure the opening is wide enough for your bottle to fit snugly inside. 

• Tape (optional): If you want to create clean lines or add patterns, tape can help keep things neat while you paint. 

• Ice: To keep your wine chilled, of course! 

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, you’re all set to unleash your creativity. Let your imagination run wild—this project is all about making it your own! Now, let’s dive into the next steps and get that pumpkin ready to shine at your Halloween gathering. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Pumpkin Ice Bucket 

Start with a foam crafting pumpkin. Make sure it’s big enough to fit a bottle inside. I chose a pretty white variety to make my copper polka dots pop.

Cut the top off of your pumpkin just as you would if you were carving a regular old jack-o-lantern, but make sure the opening is wide enough for your bottle.

You can leave your pumpkin plain, but I prefer to jazz things up a bit! I chose a metallic copper acrylic paint and decided to keep it simple by using round sponge brushes to simply dab on polka dots of different sizes. Could not be easier and oh so cute!

The only limit is your own imagination when it comes to decorating your pumpkin! A glittery spider web motif would be super pretty, or a traditional jack-o-lantern face. A monogram would be a lovely and classic way to go, too!  

Fill your pumpkin with ice and set a chilled bottle of your favorite vino inside. Voila! An easy, customizable, reusable festive ice bucket! You could even use the pumpkin to display Halloween candy or a fall floral arrangement at a later date!

How would you decorate your pumpkin ice bucket? Would you keep it simple so it could be used for Thanksgiving as well, or go all out with the Halloween theme and spook it up a bit more?

Follow La Crema’s board Hallowine Time on Pinterest.

Perfect Wines to Chill in Your Pumpkin Ice Bucket 

Now that your polka dot pumpkin ice bucket is all set, let’s talk about the best wines to fill it with! Choosing the right wines will not only keep your guests refreshed but also elevate the festive atmosphere of your Halloween gathering. 

• First up, the Monterey Chardonnay is a fantastic choice. Its bright and crisp character makes it perfect for complementing fall flavors, and it pairs beautifully with appetizers like cheese platters or light seafood dishes. Chill a bottle in your pumpkin, and your guests will appreciate the refreshing sip throughout the night. 

• If you’re leaning toward red, the Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a winner. Its juicy berry flavors and subtle earthiness are perfect for cozy gatherings, matching well with heartier fare like roasted pumpkin seeds or even a savory pumpkin soup. It adds a warm touch to your celebration, making it feel just right for the season. 

• For something a bit different, consider a La Crema Rosé. This wine’s bright fruitiness and crisp finish make it a versatile option that can work well with a range of Halloween snacks. Plus, the beautiful color adds a nice pop to your pumpkin display! 

No matter what you choose, filling your pumpkin ice bucket with these La Crema wines will not only keep your drinks chilled but also set the perfect vibe for your Halloween festivities. So grab a bottle (or two) and let the good times roll! 

Further Halloween Party Ideas 

Now that you have your adorable polka dot pumpkin ice bucket ready, let’s take your Halloween party to the next level with some fun ideas and decorations that will impress your guests! 

• Spooky Snack Station: Create a festive snack table featuring Halloween-themed treats. Think ghost-shaped cookies, pumpkin spice popcorn, and “witches’ fingers” (celery sticks with almond slivers). Arrange these goodies on a black tablecloth adorned with faux cobwebs for a spooky touch. Here are some of our past blogs on Halloween-centered recipes: 

• • Chocolate ghost cake 

• • A tableful of treats 

• Themed Cocktails: Serve up some Halloween-inspired cocktails alongside your La Crema wines. Try a “Witch’s Brew” punch with green sherbet and lemon-lime soda or a “Bloody Mary” bar where guests can customize their drinks with a variety of toppings. 

• Creepy Candlelight: Set the mood with candlelight! Use an assortment of candles—some in pumpkin holders or even black candlesticks—to create an eerie glow. Battery-operated tea lights work well if you’re worried about real flames. 

• Costume Contest: Encourage guests to come in their best Halloween costumes! Host a contest and offer a fun prize for the most creative outfit. This adds an interactive element to your party and can lead to some great photo opportunities. 

• DIY Decor: Beyond the pumpkin ice bucket, get crafty with DIY decorations! Make paper bats to hang from the ceiling or create a spooky photo backdrop with black streamers and fun props for your guests to pose with. 

• Themed Music Playlist: Curate a Halloween-themed playlist featuring classic spooky tunes and fun songs to get everyone in the spirit. Think “Monster Mash” and “Thriller” to keep the energy lively. 

Cheers to a Spooktacular Celebration! 

As you prepare for Halloween, don’t forget to let your creativity shine with your polka dot pumpkin ice bucket! This fun DIY project is not only a charming centerpiece but also a practical way to keep your favorite La Crema wines chilled and ready for your guests. 

We hope these ideas inspire you to throw a memorable Halloween gathering filled with delicious sips and festive fun. So gather your friends, enjoy your creations, and make this Halloween one to remember!