Join us for the 2026 Poetry Out Loud Monterey County Competition, where talented high school students from across the county bring powerful poetry to life through performance and public speaking. Cheer on the next Monterey County Champion as they compete for a chance to advance to the California State Finals and beyond.

Participating schools include Alisal High School, Monterey High School, Pacific Grove High School, Palma School, Rancho San Juan High School, and Trinity Christian High School. Hosted by the Arts Council for Monterey County in partnership with the California Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, this inspiring event celebrates youth voices and the enduring impact of poetry.

Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Black Box Theater, Monterey County Office of Education
901 Blanco Circle, Salinas
RSVP encouraged: bit.ly/polrsvp2026
Questions? Email info@arts4mc.org