April is National Poetry Month, and ArtsFairfax and the Fairfax County Park Authority are kicking off a summer of fun poetry events to get you inspired. Poetry in the Parks is a series of poetry readings and workshops, created by Fairfax County Poet Laureate Danielle Badra, that will span from April 27 to August 17.
“Poetry in the Parks brings together nature lovers and poetry lovers in an incredible way. Last year, we had professional stargazers with a newfound admiration for poetry, and poets who were first-time visitors to a featured park creating outstanding verses,” Badra said. “It was such a beautiful melding of worlds, which is ultimately the goal of each Poetry in the Parks event.”
In its first year, the event series brought out over 120 guests, according to a news release from ArtsFairfax.
In addition to the events, there will be a set of poetry plaques in Ellanor C. Lawrence Park in Chantilly and Riverbend Park in Great Falls, featuring poems about nature.
Fairfax Poet Laureate: National Poetry Month Poetry Reading
April 27, 1–2:30 p.m.
There will be a poetry reading in Alexandria’s Green Spring Gardens, featuring writers Camisha L. Jones, Emilia Philips, Benjamin Renne, and Marcielo Shirley. Green Spring Gardens: 4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria
Fairfax Poet Laureate: Poetry Beneath the Stars
May 4 and August 17, 7:30–8:30 p.m.
Take a writing workshop while admiring the cosmos at Turner Farm’s Roll Top Observatory. There are two sessions of this event, which is “back by popular demand.” Turner Farm: 925 Springvale Rd., Great Falls
Fairfax Poet Laureate: Pride Month Poetry Reading
June 1, 1–2:30 p.m.
Mark the beginning of Pride Month with this event, featuring “some of the region’s most prominent LGBTQ+ poets.” Poets include Danielle Badra, Gowri Koneswaran, and Brian Teare. Green Spring Gardens: 4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria
You can register for the free Poetry in the Parks events online through Fairfax County’s Parktakes.
Feature image of Turner Farm Park Observatory courtesy Fairfax County Park Authority
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