Annual observance

International Poetry Day

March 21 Learning / Reading Updated 2025-12-17

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

Celebrated on March 21st, International Poetry Day aims to promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry worldwide. This day encourages individuals to engage with various forms of poetry, discover new poets, and appreciate the art of words. Schools, libraries, and cultural organizations often host poetry readings, workshops, and contests, making poetry accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

Observed each year on March 21, International Poetry Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: International Poetry Day, observed on March 21, highlights the significance of poetry as a vital form of expression and communication across cultures. By promoting the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry, this day fosters creativity and appreciation for literary arts, enriching educational experiences for students and communities alike.

Origin and story

International Poetry Day was established by UNESCO in 1999.

The day aligns with the arrival of spring in many regions, symbolizing renewal and creativity.

Quick facts

  • DateMarch 21
  • TypeLearning / Reading
  • Great forBook clubs, Teachers, Students

Also on this date

Ways to Observe International Poetry Day

International Poetry Day celebrates poetry as a form of artistic expression and cultural heritage.

Read or Write Poetry

  • Read poems from different cultures
  • Write your own poem
  • Share favorite verses with others

Learn About Poetry

Explore Poetic Traditions

  • Learn about different poetic forms
  • Discover poets from around the world
  • Attend or watch poetry readings

Did You Know?

Poetry is one of the oldest art forms, with roots in oral storytelling traditions thousands of years old.

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Fun facts

  • International Poetry Day was established by UNESCO in 1999.
  • The day aligns with the arrival of spring in many regions, symbolizing renewal and creativity.
  • Poetry's roots extend back to ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia and Greece.
  • Famous poets celebrated on this day include William Shakespeare and Maya Angelou.
  • Poetry slams and open mic events often occur on this day, allowing poets to share their work in public settings.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


Continue to

FAQ

When is International Poetry Day?
It is observed on March 21 each year.
What is International Poetry Day?
Celebrated on March 21st, International Poetry Day aims to promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry worldwide. This day encourages individuals to engage with various forms of poetry, discover new poets, and appreciate the art of words. Schools, libraries, and cultural organizations often host poetry readings, workshops, and contests, making poetry accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
How do people celebrate International Poetry Day?
International Poetry Day lands on March 21 — host a quick nod with Book clubs, Teachers and snap a photo.

Get the app

Thousands of obscure holidays, daily widgets, reminders, and fun facts—free on iOS and Android.

Recently viewed holidays