Why does Minneapolis celebrate a giant pencil every year? In this episode of On Our Minds: Road Trip, hosts Zack and Helena head to the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” to explore one of the city’s most delightfully weird traditions: the Giant Pencil Festival on Lake of the Isles. From dancing pencil costumes to a dramatic annual “sharpening” ceremony, this story highlights how creativity, humor, and community spirit turn a fallen tree into a beloved public art celebration. Plus, the hosts share their own quirky stories, including some about Helena’s pet turkey, Juanita.
Divya Thamman produced the story in this episode. Lead Producer Becky Wandel produced, edited, and mixed this episode. Additional production support was provided by Emily Hope Dobkin, Wyatt Mayes, Anthony Payne, Rawan Elbaba, and Caroline Frentz. Graphics by Anurag Papolu. Approval and Oversight by Editorial Director Marie Cusick and Executive Producer Leah Clapman. Special thanks to KUT, Jake Perlman, and WETA, as well as the Lake of the Isles Pencil Festival. Theme song composed and performed by Emilson Orellana Juarez and Jerick Romero Ciprian.