Poetry Out Loud (POL) is a national recitation competition that encourages high school students to engage with poetry through performance. In partnership with the Poetry Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, the California Arts Council, and the Arts Council for Monterey County, this program promotes a love for literature and enhances students’ public speaking skills.

The competition begins at the high school level in the Fall, where students participate in their school contests. Winners advance to the county competition after winter break, hosted by the Arts Council for Monterey County, and from there, the County Champion will progress to the state competition and potentially the national finals.

Ready to get involved? Scroll down to learn more about the process and available resources. We’d also love to see you at the upcoming Monterey County Poetry Out Loud competition! The event is free and open to the public. This event usually takes place by the first week of February.

Want more poetry? Do you have poetry of your own you want to share? We have just the opportunity for you. You can become the next Monterey County Youth Poet Laureate. Join the Monterey County Poet Laureate and perform your poems, promote the arts, and represent your community throughout the county. Registration happens in the spring. Learn more here.