National Poetry Day, the annual mass celebration of poetry and all things poetical, takes place on Thursday 6 October 2016.

It is an initiative of the Forward Arts Foundation, a charity that celebrates excellence in poetry and widens its audience. We bring together leading poetry, literacy and literary organisations around a shared purpose: promoting the enjoyment, discovery and sharing of poetry.  Learn more about our plans and offers by signing up to our mailing list.

FAQs

Who can put on an event?
Anyone. We welcome events of all shapes and sizes, whether from individuals, groups or organisations. If you are using our logos or posters, take pictures and put them on social media with the hashtag #nationalpoetryday

What does it cost?
It’s FREE. Just list any public event you’re hosting on the ‘what’s on’ page. You are welcome to charge for your event. Don’t list schools events here though if you want to tell us of your fabulous plans to mark the Day in your school, you could win a schools pack of books, posters and badges. Details on our NPD schools competition page.

How do I list an event?
Use this Add my event form

When is National Poetry Day 2017?
It will be on Thursday 28 September 2017.

What is the theme of National Poetry Day 2017?
The theme for National Poetry Day 2017 will be Freedom.

Our history

National Poetry Day was founded in 1994 by William Sieghart, and has engaged millions of people across the country reading, writing and listening to poetry. From 1999 onwards, National Poetry Day has been loosely themed: the theme is not prescriptive but it kick starts inspiration. Our partners at The Poetry Society have a great page with more detail here.