Poetry International Festival Rotterdam

A week of poetry in Rotterdam

Poetry International is one of the biggest and leading poetry stages in the world. The event, which has been held since 1970, is a truly international happening at the Rotterdamse Schouwburg Theatre. If you are culture lover, this event is the place to be! During the festival which lasts five days there will be 20 international poets on stage and each will deliver a lecture. Furthermore, there are also other activities and other poets will be put into the spotlight.

Winner of C. Buddingh Poetry award

Every year on the eve of poetry day, the prizegiving of the prestigious C. Buddingh award takes place. This award is for the most promising rooky poet. The newcomer who wins this award, will get a lot of exposure during the Poetry International Festival in Rotterdam.

Active participation with poetry

As a visitor of Poetry International you have further options than just listening to poets, such as writing poems yourself or learning how to write them. Literature lovers can participate in translation projects, writing workshops and contests. Also at this edition of Poetry International in Rotterdam, there will be a masterclass poetry. To meet other visitors and discuss poetry with them visit Café Floor at Schouwburgplein before the show (dinner) or after (drink).

Debating with other poetry lovers

What is poetry without a debate? Compare it to music without instruments, or a car race without a track. Poetry has a function, to stir something inside you, to make you think, or just to have a good time. Just like any other form of art, poetry needs a sounding board, and that is why Poetry International in Rotterdam offers the possibility to get into debate wit and about poets and their works.