San Antonio is gearing up for an April filled with poetic endeavors, marking National Poetry Month with a wide array of events geared towards celebrating the art form. In a statement obtained by the City of San Antonio's official website, Poet Laureate Eddie Vega encourages the community to immerse themselves in the vibrant scene, saying, "Something poetic is happening in this city every day from April and even into May." The month will feature over 40 events kicking off with VIVA Poesía on April 5.
Set to unfold at the historic Mission Marquee Plaza, VIVA Poesía: Palabras, Música, y Cultura is the designated launch event, combining poetry, visual arts, dance, and performance groups into a single spectacle. With the event celebrating its 11th anniversary, the theme is “Ónce Pon a Time at the Mission Marquee!” Director of the World Heritage Office, Colleen Swain, beamed about celebrating a decade of creativity, "This year's theme reflects the past 10 years, showcasing the incredible journey we've taken towards fostering a vibrant artistic culture in San Antonio." According to the City of San Antonio official news release, Swain invites everyone, while anticipating a thriving future, to honor the city's poetic and cultural heritage.
The Academy of American Poets instituted National Poetry Month in 1996, and since San Antonio joined the movement in 2009, it has been committed to raising awareness about the value of poetry in society. Emphasizing the significance of poetry in San Antonio’s cultural tapestry, Department of Arts & Culture Director Krystal Jones stated, “Poetry holds a vital role in San Antonio’s culture year-round, but it’s in April that the city’s many talented poets really come to the forefront,” as told to the City of San Antonio.
Residents and visitors can expect a rich schedule that includes poetry slams, workshops, and book launches, designed to offer a platform for both emerging and established poets to showcase their craft. The entire roster of events is aimed not just at celebrating, but also at fostering connection within the community through the power of poetry. For anyone looking to participate or learn more about the events of National Poetry Month San Antonio 2025, full details and updates can be found by visiting City of San Antonio or by following the hashtags #NPMSA2025 and #GetCreativeSA on social media.
