Submissions are open! Upcoming events…

July 1-August 15th (extended), Poetry Contest! SDPA is proud to partner with International Memoir Writers Association and SD Writers Festival to co-sponsor the new Poetry component of their acclaimed Memoir Showcase. $5/poem reading fee goes to subsidize production costs. Preciously published poems accepted – read the full submission guidelines here. Now in its 11th year, the 2026 showcase will be performed on November 14 at 7 p.m. PT at the Garfield Theater in La Jolla.

Winning Showcase writers will work with a coach to refine their piece for performance and have an opportunity to meet for a roundtable read with their professional actors and show directors. Winning works will also be published in the 2026 Shaking the Tree Anthology.

June 15-Oct 15: San Diego Poetry Annual Submissions are open!

June 15-Oct 15: San Diego Poetry Annual Submissions are open!

SDPA 2024-25 cover photography by Fernando Phillipi.

Aug 1, 3pm-5pm: The Poetry Party with host Christopher R, Senior Lounge, 1650 El Prado, Suite 105, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA and Poetic Legacy:

Aug 2, 6:30pm: Chilean laureate Pablo Jofré and SDPA’s bilingual edition editor Olga García @ Libélula. All the details:

Aug 12, 6pm: San Diego Poetry Annual contributors and celebrated poets Katie Kemple, Leslie Hodge, and Ron Lauderbach @ Hey Books! East Village, let’s go!

Aug 13, 5pm: IB Arts Poetry Night at Novo Brazil Brewing. All the details/EventBrite here. Welcome to Poetry Open Mic Night at Novo Brazil Brewing in Imperial Beach! Join us for an evening filled with creativity, expression, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or simply want to share your thoughts, this event is the perfect platform for you. Grab a drink, step up to the mic, and let your words flow. 

Sept 8, 3pm: San Diego Poetry Annual @ Spacebar with host Jim Moreno in person and on Zoom. (Sign up or get involved by email: sdpoetryannual@gmail.com) Instagram: @sdpoetryannual

SDPA 2024-25 cover photography by Fernando Phillipi.

Nov. 7, 5-6:30 pm: SDPA at Dan Diego Writer’s, Ink. Come on down to the SDWI/Inspirations Gallery in Liberty Station, 2730 Historic Decatur Rd #204, San Diego, CA 92106. Bring yourself, your poem, and some words for Robt, a pillar of San Diego poetry. SDPA readers and open community reading to follow.

Cover art “Best in Poetry” by Michael Klam