Burlington Lyrics & Poetry Festival runs April 2024
April is National Poetry Month and here in Burlington, we are celebrating poetic creativity in all its forms during the third annual Burlington Lyrics & Poetry Festival.
“We’re thrilled to welcome a lineup of incredibly talented artists, each bringing their unique voice to enrich this year’s festival experiences,” says Lita Barrie, CEO of Burlington Public Library. “The goal of the festival is to connect people with the power of words, and we hope everyone will find something that ignites their passion for poetry.”
All events are free to attend, whether or not you are a library member. Registration opens at noon on March 20.
Festival highlights
This year’s lineup offers an exciting schedule of performances, workshops, and activities for all ages, including a feature presentation by Rik Emmett, lead singer/songwriter/guitarist of Triumph, who wrote some of the most beloved hits of the 1980s. Emmett talks about his new autobiography, Lay It on the Line: A Backstage Pass to Rock Star Adventure, Conflict and Triumph, sharing stories about his family roots, early musical career, and life beyond the stage.
The festival also offers an uplifting evening of poetry reading by Marilyn Lightstone, host of the hugely popular podcast, Nocturne; a powerful session with spoken word poet Britta Badour, drawing from her debut collection, Wires that Sputter; a wondrous children’s music event with My Friend Christopher; and a beginner’s guide to poetry appreciation with poet and editor Jim Johnstone.
Is writing your thing? For those looking to tap into their own creative expression, author Kimiko Horne facilitates an in-person Haiku workshop, and Lynda Monk offers a virtual poetry and journaling session.
Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just love playing with words, our branches are buzzing with poetic possibilities throughout April. Swing by your local branch and unleash your inner poet at our poetry stations where you can try blackout poetry or create super-sized poems on our windows. We supply the words — you create the poetic masterpiece!
On Sunday, April 28, the Festival wraps up with the popular Lyrics & Poetry Open Mic event for poets, singers, songwriters, and musicians (and appreciative listeners, too!).
So, bring your curiosity, creativity, and imagination — and come along on this month-long exploration of lyrics and poetry.
Follow @BurlONLibrary on Instagram to get the latest festival news.
2024 Burlington Lyrics & Poetry Festival lineup
How to Appreciate a Poem: Tuesday, April 2, 7–8 p.m.
Poems to Linger Over: Monday, April 8, 7–8 p.m.
Music & Songs for Families: Saturday, April 13, 2–3 p.m.
The Power & Presence of Spoken Word: Monday, April 15, 7–8:30 p.m.
The Art of Haiku Workshop: Wednesday, April 17, 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Prompts to Find Your Inner Poet: Tuesday, April 23, 7–8 p.m.
An Afternoon with Rik Emmett: Sunday, April 28, 1–2 p.m.
Lyrics & Poetry Open Mic: Sunday, April 28, 3–4 p.m.
