2026 San Jose Poetry Festival

The 2026 San José Poetry Festival is almost here! Stop by History Park on August 16 and August 21–23 for four inspiring days celebrating the power of poetry, storytelling, creativity, and community. This year's festival is one of our most exciting yet, featuring acclaimed poets, engaging workshops, lively readings, open mics, and both in-person and Zoom events so everyone can take part, wherever they are. The event will feature California Poet Laureate Lee Herrick, Los Angeles Poet Laureate Brian Sonia-Wallace, Reggie Edmonds-Vásquez, Jen Siraganian, Farnaz Fatemi, Lem "Saint" Gonsalves, Solange Aguilar, and many more outstanding poets from across California and beyond.

There's also going to be a Beautiful Black Books reading hosted by Tshaka Campbell, an always-popular Small Press Fair + Open Mic, youth programming, writing workshops, and opportunities to discover new voices throughout the festival.

Don't miss out on this awesome event!