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Celebrate National Poetry Month with DC Public Library! Residents ages 6 and up are invited to submit a haiku to the DC Public Library 2026 Haiku Contest from Apr. 1 - 30.
Themes for this year's haikus include topics like:
- What brings you joy?
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For the love of DC
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The beauty of books
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A moment of peace
Winners will be selected in the following age categories, Children (6-12), Teen (13-19) and Adult (20+). Prize-winners will take home library swag and have their poem posted in the library and on the DC Public Library's website in May! There is a limit of two entries per person.
What is a Haiku?
A haiku is a traditional Japanese poem made up of three lines, with 17 syllables total.
Line 1 is made up of 5 syllables.
Line 2 is made up of 7 syllables.
Line 3 is made up of 5 syllables.
Traditionally, haiku don't rhyme and use imagery from the natural world, but you can decide if you want to be creative with rhyme, images, and content.
Submit Your Haiku
We look forward to reading your haikus! Stay tuned for the winners announcement at the end of the month!
Books About Writing Haiku
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