Upcoming literary programs/Events

Wednesday, April 8, 12 noon - 2 p.m. 
“Creative Pathways - Poetry Panel” 
Northern Virginia Community College – Alexandria, Alexandria, VA
Come be inspired as poets share their journeys, creative paths, and the ways their work has inspired others. The panel may feature Poet Laureates and other accomplished poets. Registration required by emailing poet@alexandriava.gov. If questions call 703.746.5565.

Update: Poet Laureate Reception Cancelled
The Sunday, April 12 Poet Laureate Reception has been cancelled.
But don’t worry—there are plenty of exciting ways to get your poetry fix this month! ✨ Check out these upcoming events:
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Friday, April 10 | 7–9 p.m.
Del Ray Poetry Reading
St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mt. Vernon Avenue

Enjoy an evening of powerful spoken word featuring DMV hip-hop poet GRAVY. After the featured reading, stick around for an open mic—all are welcome to share! Theme of the month: “Gardens”
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Saturday, April 18 | 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Poetry Palooza: A Day of Poetry Fun!
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road, Suite 104

Celebrate National Poetry Month with a full day of creative, interactive events. Drop in for one activity or stay all day!
Highlights include:
•    With Ink: Typewriter Poetry (10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.)
Get a custom poem created just for you by typewriter poet Joseph Jablonski 
•    Alexandria Poet Laureate Reading (11:00–11:30 a.m.)
Featuring Cristi Donoso 
•    Open Mic (11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)
Share your work or listen to others—open to all ages 
•    Bright Star Screening (1:30–3:30 p.m.)
A beautiful film about poet John Keats and Fanny Brawne 
•    You’re a Poet! (All Day)
Try hands-on poetry activities and explore an interactive exhibit 
Plus, don’t miss the Burke Branch Friends Spring Book Sale!
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Thursday, April 23 | 6:30–8 p.m.
“Poem in Your Pocket” Celebration
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street

Join Alexandria Poet Laureate Cristi Donoso for an inspiring evening of poetry, alongside the 2025 Dashing Words in Motion poets.

Their work will be featured on DASH buses and trolleys throughout April!
Space is limited—reservations are encouraged.
To reserve a spot or sign up to read, email: poet@alexandriava.gov
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Sunday, May 31 | 2–3:30 p.m.
Art Break: A Creative Workshop for Caregivers
Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke Street

Parents and caregivers are invited to take a well-deserved pause. Through guided art and poetry activities led by Cristi Donoso, this workshop offers space to reflect, recharge, and connect with others.

All materials provided—just bring yourself.

Any questions about these upcoming poetry events, please reach out to poet@alexandriava.gov.

 

In 2004, then-Councilman Ludwig Gaines proposed the designation of a Poet Laureate for the City of Alexandria. In response, a steering committee of citizens and City staff was established to develop a protocol for selecting a Poet Laureate. On April 25, 2006, City Council received the proposal submitted by the steering committee. Following a public hearing on May 20, 2006, City Council unanimously approved the establishment of the Poet Laureate program.  

In 2007, The City of Alexandria's Poet Laureate program was reestablished to promote appreciation of poetry as an art form; to encourage creative writing and reading of all forms of literature; and to promote literacy through poetry.