The Twin Cities are home to many quirky traditions, and one of the most delightful is the Lake of the Isles (LOTI) Pencil Day Celebration. Now in its fourth year, this unique event invites everyone to gather on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM for the annual sharpening of a giant wooden pencil sculpture on Lake of the Isles Parkway in Minneapolis. From live music and whimsical entertainment to free treats and family fun, the 4th Annual LOTI Pencil Day promises to be a can’t-miss summer event for all ages.

What is LOTI Pencil Day? LOTI Pencil Day is an annual celebration centered around an enormous No. 2 pencil sculpture on the shore of Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis. (“LOTI” simply stands for Lake of the Isles.) The tradition began in 2022 when homeowner John Higgins commissioned local sculptor Curtis Ingvoldstad to carve a 20-foot tall, 32-inch thick bur oak stump into a giant yellow pencil. What started as a creative way to honor a beloved 180-year-old tree quickly grew into a community obsession. The public was invited to the pencil’s first “sharpening” ceremony in June 2022, and hundreds of curious neighbors and visitors showed up to witness the inaugural event.

Every year on the first Saturday of June, the giant pencil gets ceremoniously sharpened with much fanfare. Over time, as the pencil’s tip is shaved down a few inches each year, the sculpture literally changes and evolves, just like a real pencil in use – making each year’s event a little different.

Who Organizes the Event and Why? The LOTI Pencil Day celebration is a grassroots community event organized by the Higgins family, on whose property the giant pencil stands at 2217 East Lake of the Isles Parkway. The event is supported by neighbors and the East Isles Neighborhood Association. In true community spirit, the gathering is free to attend and open to everyone. No tickets or RSVP required – just look for the house with the giant yellow pencil and festive crowd.

Event Details Date & Time: Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 1:00 PM to approximately 2:30 PM. Arrive by 1:00 to catch the kickoff.

Location: Lake of the Isles Pencil – 2217 E Lake of the Isles Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55405.

Admission: Free! All ages welcome.

Getting there: Street parking is limited, so consider biking, walking, or using public transit. The event is outdoors, standing-room only on grass and pavement, so wear comfortable shoes.

What to Expect at Pencil Day

  • Live Music & Dancing: DJ Jake Rudh and the University of Minnesota Pep Band will provide lively tunes. Costumes and dancing are encouraged!
  • Sharpening Ceremony: Watch artist Curtis Ingvoldstad refresh the pencil’s point using chainsaws and chisels. It’s part art demo, part performance.
  • Giveaways & Free Treats: Free commemorative T-shirts (often launched via slingshot!) and ice cream will be available. Trivia contests and pencil-themed prizes may also be part of the fun.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Kids love the giant pencil and the festive environment. There are no formal crafts, but the whimsical setting provides plenty of entertainment.

Special Tribute to Prince June 7 also marks what would have been Prince’s 67th birthday. Expect purple-themed touches and a few musical nods to Minneapolis’ beloved icon.

Schedule Overview:

  • 1:00 PM: DJ music begins, crowd gathers, and ice cream is served.
  • 1:15 PM: Welcome remarks and storytelling about the pencil.
  • 1:30 PM: Sharpening ceremony begins.
  • 2:00 PM: Celebration continues with music, dancing, and giveaways.

Tips for Attendees:

  • Arrive early for the best viewing spot.
  • Bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather.
  • Consider biking or walking to avoid parking challenges.
  • Be respectful of neighbors and clean up after yourself.

Mark your calendar for June 7th and join the community celebration of creativity, public art, and local joy at the 4th Annual LOTI Pencil Day. Whether you’re there for the sharpening, the music, the ice cream, or just to marvel at a giant pencil, this uniquely Minnesotan tradition is sure to leave you smiling. See you by the lake!