What vegetable was carved before pumpkin?

It's hard to say definitively which vegetable was carved *before* pumpkins, as carving vegetables for decoration is likely as old as agriculture itself. But some strong contenders include:

* Turnips: Turnips were popular for carving in Europe, especially in the 18th and 19th centuries. They were often carved into lanterns and used in celebrations like Halloween.

* Beets: Beets were also used for carving in Europe, particularly in Germany, where they were used to create elaborate designs for celebrations.

* Radishes: Radishes, with their vibrant colors and shapes, have been used for intricate carvings in Japan for centuries, particularly during the Edo period.

It's important to remember that carving vegetables wasn't always done for Halloween. It was often used in religious celebrations, festivals, and as a way to showcase artistic skills.