Get ready to vibe with raw, live poetry and music that'll touch your soul and spark your creativity.

An Intimate Poetry & Jazz Experience

Experience poetry like never before at this signature live recording event presented by the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council’s Office of the Poet Laureate.

Poetry Live is a one-of-a-kind, intergenerational performance that blends the raw power of spoken word with the soulful energy of live jazz. In a beautifully curated setting, this experience brings a live audience together with dynamic poets and musicians for a seamless blend of sound, storytelling, and cultural expression.

Guests will be immersed in a thoughtfully crafted program featuring:

• Live jazz selections by the Ben Sands Jazz Trio

• Powerful poetry performances from emerging and established voices

• A special appearance by the 2025 Youth Poet Laureate

• A live conversation exploring creativity, community, and the role of poetry today

• A dynamic, collaborative finale blending poetry and music

The evening will also feature a special highlight moment as we celebrate the new Prince George’s County Poet Laureate, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the County’s literary legacy.

This is more than a performance; it’s a cultural experience that captures the spirit, sound, and stories of Prince George’s County.

Whether you are a poetry enthusiast, music lover, or creative spirit, this intimate experience invites you to witness the artistry, connection, and energy that define the literary arts in Prince George’s County.

Space is limited—reserve your seat and be part of the moment.

A special thank you to our sponsors for their support of this event.

Get your creative juices flowing and sharpen your writing skills in this fun, laid-back workshop for storytellers.

Celebrate the power of words during National Poetry Month with an engaging, hands-on creative writing experience designed to spark inspiration and unlock your voice.

This interactive session invites participants to explore the joy and craft of writing through guided prompts, creative exercises, and reflective moments. Whether you’re putting pen to paper for the first time or looking to deepen your practice, you’ll have the opportunity to generate original work, experiment with new ideas, and connect with others through storytelling and poetry.

Participants are encouraged to share their writing in a supportive, welcoming environment where creativity is celebrated and every voice matters.

Perfect for emerging writers, first-time poets, and creatives of all kinds, this session requires no prior experience; just bring your curiosity and a willingness to create.

Thank you to our sponsors for their support of this event.

Celebrate the emerging voices in Prince George's County poetry scene and enjoy an evening of inspiring words and community spirit

Some voices don't just tell stories — they become the story of a place. This April, join us for an unforgettable evening that honors the power of poetry to reflect, challenge, and celebrate the spirit of Prince George's County.

The Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council, in partnership with Dialect of Prince George's County and the Lucille Clifton Literary Scholarship Program, invites you to witness history — as we crown our next County Poet Laureate and Youth Poet Laureate and celebrate the literary voices shaping our community.

The evening begins with a reception featuring light bites and the chance to mingle with poets, scholars, and fellow lovers of the literary arts, before the main program takes the stage.

What to expect:

• Pre-Program Reception — Light bites and conversation with the literary community.

• Third Prince George's County Poet Laureate Named — The announcement of Prince George's County's next official literary voice.

• 2026 Youth Poet Laureate Competition — A live juried competition with finalists performing on stage.

• Announcement of the winner of the 3rd Annual Lucille Clifton Literary Scholarship Award for current or former Youth Poets Laureate or Poet Ambassadors with the Prince George's Youth Poet Laureate Program. The scholarship was established in 2024 by Prince George’s County Inaugural Poet Laureate, J. Joy “Sistah Joy” Matthews Alford.

• Live Performances — Poetry readings and artistic performances throughout the evening.

"Poetry is not a luxury. It is a vital necessity of our existence." — Audre Lorde

Whether you're a longtime lover of poetry or discovering it for the first time, this evening is for you. Come early, connect with your community, and stay to bear witness as we name new voices, award young scholars, and remind ourselves why words matter — especially now.

This is more than a ceremony. It's a celebration of who we are.

The Harlem Renaissance Revisted

Join us for an insightful evening exploring the lives and legacies of Harlem Renaissance icons George Schuyler, Margaret Walker, Paul Robeson, and Jean Toomer. Part of the "What We Learned from the Harlem Renaissance" symposium, this event will examine their significant contributions to American culture and art.

Moderated by Prince George's County Poet Laureate, Dr. Khadijah Ali-Coleman, the panel will feature distinguished speakers (to be announced) sharing thier persepectives and discussing the enduring legacies of these Harlem Renaissance icons in shaping American culture and art. Presented in partnership with the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council and Black Writers for Peace and Social Justice.

The evening will begin with poetry readings by local poets, leading into a rich conversation about the Harlem Renaissance's continuing influence.

Harlem Renaissance Poet’s Salon

Celebrate National Poetry Month and the Festival of Literary Arts (FoLA) at the Poet's Day Party - Harlem Renaissance Style!

During the Harlem Renaissance, salons were gathering spaces, often hosted by influential figures, where leading African American intellectuals, artists, writers, and activists convened to discuss art, culture, politics, and life. Join us for this poet’s editions as we we honor the rich cultural heritage of our community through the power of poetry.

This afternoon will be filled with live poetry readings, performances, and engaging discussions, as we gather to honor the beauty of language and the power of expression. Whether you're a seasoned poet or simply curious about the magic of poetry, this event promises to be a joyful exploration of the written and spoken word. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow poetry enthusiasts and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of literature.

Be sure to dress up; best costume will win a prize!

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Inspirational performances by esteemed poets bringing their works to life on stage.

• Intimate readings where guests can experience the power of poetry up close and personal, diving into the depths of emotion and imagination of the Harlem Renaissance.

• Engaging discussions with the poets themselves, offering rare insights into their creative processes, inspirations, and the stories behind their most beloved verses.

• Dynamic atmosphere filled with live music, creating the perfect ambiance for an afternoon of artistic celebration and cultural appreciation.

• Unique opportunity to mingle with fellow poetry enthusiasts, sharing thoughts, experiences, and a mutual love for the beauty and significance of the written word.

• Beautiful backdrop complemented by curated delectable bites, creating a sensory experience that delights both the palate and the soul.

Whether you're a lifelong poetry aficionado or simply looking to experience the magic of verse for the first time, this event promises to be an afternoon to remember. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this special celebration of poetry!

Du Bois, Johnson, Hughes & the Remaking of Black American Culture and Arts

Join us for a panel discussion, "W.E.B. Du Bois, James Weldon Johnson, Langston Hughes, and the Remaking of Black American Culture and Arts," exploring the lasting impact of these Harlem Renaissance icons on Black culture and the arts. Du Bois and Johnson argued that African Americans' unique expressive traditions represented the only truly "American" art forms, distinct from European influences. Langston Hughes captured the essence of this cultural movement through his writing.

Moderated by Prince George's County Poet Laureate, Dr. Khadijah Ali-Coleman, the panel will feature distinguished speakers (to be announced) discussing the enduring legacies of Du Bois, Johnson, and Hughes in shaping Black culture and American arts. Presented in partnership with the Prince George's Arts and Humanities Council.

The evening will begin with poetry readings by local poets, leading into a rich conversation about the Harlem Renaissance's continuing influence.