INTERNATIONAL DAY

World Poetry Day

On March 21, we honor the art of poetry and its transformative power.

MAR21

Sunday, March 21Every year on March 21

days to go

Also on Mar 21: Single Parent Day · World Down Syndrome Day · World Puppetry Day
Hashtag: #WorldPoetryDay

Add to my calendar Send a card Email a friend

Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Write a five-line poem

Pick a word, a memory, or the weather and turn it into a quick verse.

WITH FRIENDS

Hold a poetry slam

Everyone reads an original poem or a favorite classic aloud.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Post poem of the day

Pin a different poem each day this week for everyone to discover.

Plan ahead

World Poetry Day is observed on March 21 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Mar 21this year

2027Sun, Mar 21

2028Tue, Mar 21

2029Wed, Mar 21

2030Thu, Mar 21

2031Fri, Mar 21

2032Sun, Mar 21

2033Mon, Mar 21

2034Tue, Mar 21

2035Wed, Mar 21

2036Fri, Mar 21

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

The story

World Poetry Day, celebrated annually on March 21, was declared by UNESCO in 1999 to promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry worldwide. The day encourages poets, teachers, and readers to share their love for poetry and its profound impact on culture. This observance is particularly significant as it highlights the role of poetry in fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse cultures.

Read the full story

From the verses of Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson to contemporary spoken word artists, poetry has been a vital part of American culture. It reflects the nation's history, struggles, and triumphs, serving as a voice for the marginalized and a source of inspiration. World Poetry Day encourages the exploration of these voices and the stories they tell, inviting everyone to engage with the poetic form.

Globally, poetry serves as a bridge connecting people across geographic and linguistic divides. Countries like India, Nigeria, and Brazil have rich poetic traditions that contribute to the global literary landscape. World Poetry Day provides a platform for these diverse voices, allowing them to share their unique perspectives and experiences through poetry.

Celebrations may include poetry readings, workshops, and public performances in various communities. Schools often organize events to encourage students to express themselves through verse, while organizations may host competitions for aspiring poets. Ultimately, World Poetry Day invites everyone to appreciate the beauty of language and the power of creativity.

“"Poetry is language at its most distilled and powerful.”
RITA DOVE

Did you know?

First World Poetry Day

Celebrated on March 21, 2000.

UNESCO's Role

Promotes cultural diversity through poetry.

Poetry Slams

Competitive events that showcase spoken word poetry.

Famous Poets

Robert Frost and Sylvia Plath are notable American poets.

Poetry's Influence

Used in social movements to inspire change.

Poetic Forms

Includes sonnets, haikus, and free verse.

Global Participation

Countries worldwide hold events and readings.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USNorth AmericaHome to many prominent poets, including Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou.
GBEuropeThe birthplace of iconic poetry movements such as Romanticism.
ZAAfricaRich in oral traditions and contemporary poets like Wole Soyinka.
AUAustraliaKnown for its unique voices in poetry, such as Judith Wright.
BRSouth AmericaHome to vibrant poetic expressions, especially in Brazil.
JPAsiaFeatures diverse poetic traditions, including haiku from Japan.