Community Celebrates with Giant Pencil Sharpening in Minneapolis

In a picturesque Minneapolis neighborhood, over 1,000 individuals recently gathered for a notable annual event—the sharpening of a towering No. 2 pencil. The 20-foot structure, sculpted from a massive oak tree once located at John and Amy Higgins’s residence, has become a cherished community tradition.

The tree, significantly damaged in a past storm when strong winds snapped its crown, was initially mourned by the neighborhood. Some residents even shed tears. But the Higginses perceived this as an opportunity to repurpose the tree creatively.

The event, now a local spectacle, brings together hundreds in the lush area of Lake of the Isles, complete with music and grand displays. Participants frequently dress as pencils or erasers, adding to the festive atmosphere. This year featured Swiss alphorn players, adding a unique touch to the celebrations.

In memory of Prince, the iconic music artist, the hosts distributed purple pencils to mark what would have been his 67th birthday. Rachel Hyman, who traveled from Chicago to participate, expressed her enthusiasm about the event, encouraged by a friend’s description. She said, “How can you not? Life is too short,” while donning a pencil costume.

After the storm, the Higginses aimed to transform the fallen tree into an artistic sculpture rather than the typical chainsaw-carved bears often seen. They envisioned a playful and recognizable piece that became the idea of a giant pencil in their yard.

Amy Higgins explained, “A pencil is something everyone relates to. It’s seen in schools, workplaces, and countless drawings. It’s accessible and holds meaning for everyone.”

The Higginses hired wood sculptor Curtis Ingvoldstad, who crafted the pencil into a classic Trusty brand No. 2 replica. Ingvoldstad encouraged people to interpret the sculpture as they wish, even if their reactions vary.

John Higgins noted that the event aims to foster community spirit. By telling a story about renewal—sharpening the pencil to write new letters, notes, and lists—they reach a deeper connection with participants, celebrating the new possibilities each year brings.

For the event, they use a giant, custom-made sharpener on an erected scaffold to keep the pencil’s point intact. Like an actual pencil, it slowly decreases in size, losing 3 to 10 inches annually. They remain open to its eventual reduction to a small nub.

As Ingvoldstad stated, “Like any ritual, there’s a sacrifice. We give a part of the pencil’s grandeur in goodwill to the community, thanking them for their contributions over the year.”