Poetry can be a powerful force for good.  Like all the other cultural activities that make Salinas a great place to live, the arts also need to be nurtured. 

In this spirit, and to tap into the creative energy of youth in our community, we are announcing the selection of a Salinas Youth Poet Laureate for 2021.  We've made the rules pretty simple: you must be between the ages of 13-20, a Salinas resident, and must submit 1 - 2 original poems, along with a short video of yourself reading one of your submitted poems. The winner will receive a $300 cash scholarship, and have the opportunity to lead a poetry reading at one of our libraries, and inspire other youth poets.  The winner will also be announced at the Virtual Salinas City Council meeting on April 13th.  Submissions must be received by March 31st. Learn more about this new program and how to apply here.

For questions, please send them to poetry [at] ci.salinas.ca.us, or call (831) 758-7302.