Over 1,000 people attended the annual sharpening of a giant 20-foot pencil in Minneapolis. Created from a storm-damaged oak tree, the pencil, a community project by the Higginses, has become a beloved neighborhood event. This year's ceremony included music, costumed attendees, and purple pencils in honor of Prince. The event symbolizes renewal and community, with a portion of the pencil sacrificed each year during the sharpening.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.