This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Arlington, known for its vibrant cultural scene, offers numerous ways to embrace National Poetry Month every April. From captivating public art installations to engaging poetry competitions, Arlington is alive with literary fervor.
Here are two fantastic ways to immerse yourself in the celebration:
Moving Words Poetry Competition
In its 25th season, the Moving Words Poetry Competition transforms Arlington Transit (ART) buses into rolling galleries of verse. From April to September, commuters encounter poems by local talents instead of traditional advertisements, enriching their daily journeys with literary beauty. Sponsored by Arlington Transit and the Arlington Cultural Affairs Division, this initiative spotlights the profound impact of poetry in everyday life. This year’s winning poets include:
- “Appreciation Uninterrupted” by Ife Al-Din (Washington, D.C.)
- “AM Chorus” by Sidnitra Bates (District Heights, MD)
- “Do Me A Favor” by Angie Blake-Moore (Alexandria, VA)
- “Ordinary Miracles” by Jessica Browne-White (Arlington, VA)
- “Practice” by Marc Drexler (Gaithersburg, MD)
- “I pray often” by Michaela Gooding (Arlington, VA)
- “A Beginner’s Guide to Tasting Antidepressants” by Jennifer Koiter (Washington, D.C.)
- “Songs Unsung” by Rebecca Leet (Arlington, VA)
- “2 HAIKU” by Susan Russo (Arlington, VA)
- “A Month After My Dad Died, I Dream of Him” by Courtney LeBlanc, Poet Laureate (Arlington, VA)
The Poet is “IN”
Experience poetry firsthand at public events throughout Arlington during National Poetry Month. Notable regional poets set up pop-up booths reminiscent of the iconic “The Doctor is ‘IN'” from Peanuts cartoons. These poets craft personalized poems on the spot, free of charge, for participants. Catch them at the following locations:
- April 13 (3-5 p.m.): EarthFest 2024 at Arlington Mill Community Center
- April 21 ( 11 a.m.-5 p.m.): Earth Day Every Day on Langston Boulevard
- April 27 (1-3 p.m.): Walter Reed Community Center
Celebrate the beauty and power of poetry with Arlington’s rich array of events and initiatives this April. For more information on these and other National Poetry Month events, visit our website.