Poetry for Peace: The XI International Poetry Festival at PhillyCAM
By Mary Marques
The XI International Poetry Festival in Philadelphia, part of the XIX Palabra en el Mundo International Poetry Festival, will bring together renowned poets from Latin America and the United States on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, in celebration of Spanish Language Day.
This special evening, titled A Voice for Peace, Concord, and Harmony, honors the transformative power of poetry as a bridge for peace, the flourishing of authentic voices, and meaningful community connection.
A Unique Festival in the Tri-State Area
Philadelphia is a vibrant cultural hub in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and South New Jersey. Known as the City of Brotherly Love, this metropolis hosts a poetry event that highlights the Latino community's contributions and embraces and celebrates the multicultural richness that defines the city.
An Intercultural and Intergenerational Gathering
Over the years, the Festival has attracted a diverse audience united by their passion for creative writing, inspiration, and the arts. This year, attendees will enjoy readings by ten poets who will share their stories and emotions, along with live music and the highly anticipated open mic session for emerging voices.
Finding Our Voice
As part of the Festival, the fifth edition of the Virtual Poetry Workshop will occur on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. This free event aims to foster creativity and poetic exploration, offering new talents the opportunity to gain experience from experienced Latin American poets and connect with a global literary movement. Additionally, workshop participants will be invited to share their work during the Festival’s open mic session.
A Memorable Cultural Experience
Beyond an evening of poetry, the Festival creates a welcoming space where the Philadelphia community can engage directly with artists in an atmosphere filled with harmony, inspiration, and Latin American flavors. This year, for the first time, there will be a simultaneous English translation, and the event will be broadcast live by PhillyCAM through its community channel and digital platforms, allowing more people to enjoy this literary celebration from anywhere. Do not miss it!
Festival Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
- Time: 5:30 p.m.
- Location: PhillyCAM, 699 Ranstead Street, #1
- Admission: Free
- Organizers: The Free Library of Philadelphia, Acción Colombia, and the Department of Spanish and Portuguese at Temple University
- Sponsors and Partners: Latino Poetry and Independence Public Media Foundation
Join us in this great celebration of poetry and cultural diversity!
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