On Saturday, July 28, the Poetry Foundation, Crescendo Literary, and the Austin Town Hall will host the 3rd annual Chicago Poetry Block Party. Between 3:00 and 8:00 PM at Austin Town Hall (5620 W. Lake Street), guests of all ages can join in the fun. Poetry, creativity, and literature come alive with writing workshops, visual art activities, poetry readings, games, and musical performances.
The Chicago Poetry Block Party features musical performances from Tasha, Brandon Markell Holmes, Avery R. Young, and the CPBP House Band. Award-winning poet Danez Smith and other poets from across the U.S. will perform their work. An open mic will allow a chance for participants to take the stage.
The Chicago Poetry Block Party is the culmination of a three-day-long poetry Incubator held July 25-27, presented by the Poetry Foundation and Crescendo Literary. Through workshops and talks, the Incubator brings together a large group of emerging poets from around the country who engage with community through their poetry. Faculty Tyehimba Jess and Kay Ulanday Barrett share their expertise, teaching Incubator poet participants to enhance their practices and community work.
The Chicago Poetry Block Party brings poetry onto the streets every summer. It’s a great place to experience the immediacy and vibrancy of the art form, and it’s why the festival is a perfect collaboration for the Poetry Foundation,” said Henry Bienen, President of the Poetry Foundation. “This event creates a space for connection between poets, artists, and families to celebrate and create together.”
Eve Ewing, Director of Crescendo Literary, says, “We’re so excited to host the Chicago Poetry Block Party on the West Side this year. As always, our goal is to have a poetry event that’s open to everyone— hardcore poetry lovers as well as people who just want to enjoy a fun Chicago festival. We’ve worked hard to offer something for everyone.”
Tebrena Howard, Supervisor of the Austin Town Hall, added, “We’re excited to be hosting this party in Austin. There is a vibrant community of artists and poets already here and partnering with these organizations adds loft and scope to these voices.”
