Poetry Events and Festivals

San Francisco Poetry Slam

Date: June 15, 2024

Location: The Beat Museum, 540 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133

Experience the electric atmosphere of San Francisco's premier poetry slam. Poets from across the Bay Area will compete in this high-energy event, showcasing their lyrical prowess and captivating performances. Don't miss this celebration of spoken word artistry!

A dimly lit stage with a single microphone stand, surrounded by an expectant audience. The background features abstract neon poetry-related imagery.

Litquake Festival

Date: October 6-14, 2024

Location: Various venues across San Francisco

San Francisco's legendary literary festival returns for its 24th year. Featuring over 800 authors and artists in 160 events, Litquake celebrates the written word in all its forms. Join us for poetry readings, panel discussions, and literary-themed parties throughout the city.

A collage of San Francisco landmarks with overlaid text featuring poetry quotes and event details for Litquake Festival

National Poetry Month Celebration

Date: April 1-30, 2024

Location: San Francisco Public Library, 100 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Join us for a month-long celebration of poetry at the San Francisco Public Library. Featuring daily readings, workshops, and interactive exhibits, this event brings together poets of all ages and backgrounds to share their love for the written and spoken word.

The interior of a modern library with poetry books on display and a small stage set up for readings. Posters advertising National Poetry Month events are visible.

Beat Poetry Walking Tour

Date: Every Saturday in 2024

Location: Starts at City Lights Bookstore, 261 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

Explore the rich history of San Francisco's Beat Generation poets with this weekly walking tour. Visit the haunts of Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and other literary icons while experiencing live poetry readings at significant locations throughout North Beach.

A group of people following a tour guide through the streets of North Beach, San Francisco. The iconic City Lights Bookstore is visible in the background.

Haiku in the Gardens

Date: May 20, 2024

Location: San Francisco Botanical Garden, 1199 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and poetry at this unique event. Wander through the stunning Botanical Garden while composing haikus inspired by your surroundings. Workshops and readings by renowned haiku poets will be held throughout the day.

A serene Japanese garden with a small pond, surrounded by cherry blossoms. People are seen sitting on benches, writing in notebooks.