Mississauga Celebrates Poetry Month 2026 with Citywide Events and Workshops

Mississauga Poetry Month 2026 showcases workshops, performances and local talent

The City of Mississauga is marking Poetry Month this April with a diverse lineup of literary events, workshops and performances designed to celebrate creativity, culture and community engagement.

The annual campaign highlights the importance of poetry in everyday life, from classical works like The Odyssey to contemporary collections such as Milk and Honey, while reinforcing the City’s commitment to arts, literacy and cultural development.

A Month of Literary Programming

Throughout April, residents will have access to a wide range of programming hosted at key venues including the Hazel McCallion Central Library and the Living Arts Centre.

The month began with an Open Mic Night on April 2, featuring Poet Laureate Andrea Josic and Youth Poet Laureate Tahira Rajwani, who led a workshop before inviting participants to share their work.

Upcoming events include:

• Collage Poetry Workshop (April 9): Participants will create visual poetry using text from magazines and newspapers.
• Poetry and Paint Workshop (April 16): A guided session combining writing exercises with artistic expression.
• Seventh Annual Poetry Slam (April 23): A showcase of original spoken word performances by young local talent.
• Odes Poetry Workshop (April 30): A session focused on writing odes inspired by meaningful people, places or experiences.

All events aim to provide accessible, beginner-friendly opportunities for residents to explore poetry and connect with others in the community.

Supporting Young and Emerging Voices

The Poetry Slam remains a highlight of the month, offering youth aged 14 to 24 an opportunity to perform original work in a supportive, family-friendly setting. Submissions for performers close on April 16.

City officials say initiatives like Poetry Month help elevate young voices and strengthen the local creative sector, aligning with broader cultural strategies such as the Future Directions Culture and Library Plans and the Prosper and Belong Strategic Pillars for Change.

Literary Leadership in the Community

Mississauga’s Poet Laureate and Youth Poet Laureate play a central role in the programming, serving as literary ambassadors who promote the value of poetry and storytelling across the city.

The City will also recognize its sixth Poet Laureate at a General Committee meeting on April 8. The selected poet will serve a two-year term from 2026 to 2028, helping to advance literary arts and engage residents through creative initiatives.

Exploring Poetry Across the City

In addition to scheduled events, Mississauga libraries are offering Poetry Month-themed programming, including storytimes and curated reading lists for all ages.

Residents are encouraged to explore poetry in its many forms, whether through writing, performance or reading, as part of a broader effort to foster lifelong learning and cultural expression.

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