WORCESTER—The city’s looking for its next voices of verse.
The Cultural Development Division announced Monday it has opened applications for the positions of Worcester poet laureate and Worcester youth poet laureate, both of which begin in January 2026.
The poet laureate serves a three-year term through December 2028, while the youth poet laureate holds a two-year appointment through December 2027. Applications are due by Oct. 27.
According to the city’s announcement, the roles are designed to “promote cultural awareness, civic engagement, and creative expression” while amplifying Worcester’s literary community. Both poets represent the city at public events and lead community-based literary programming.
The youth poet laureate position is open to local poets ages 13 to 19 who are passionate about sharing youth perspectives. The chosen poet receives a $500 annual honorarium and a one-time $2,500 scholarship.
“Serving as the Worcester Youth Poet Laureate has been one of the most empowering experiences of my life,” current Youth Poet Laureate Serenity Jackson said in the announcement. “I’ve had the opportunity to connect with artists, activists and community leaders who have inspired me and helped me grow by encouraging me to use my voice with purpose, building relationships and learning to step into every room with confidence.”
The poet laureate receives a $1,500 annual honorarium and is expected to mentor the Youth Poet Laureate, lead workshops, and present four or more public readings each year.
“It has been an honor to use poetry as a bridge between people, neighborhoods and generations,” current Poet Laureate Oliver de la Paz said. “Mentoring young poets and seeing their voices rise reminded me why I write in the first place. The city is listening. Youth are listening. And their voices carry power when they stay curious, trust their truth and let words lead them.”
As part of the application process, the city hosts a virtual poet laureate writing workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 5:30 p.m. Interested poets can learn more about the program, ask questions, and review application requirements alongside the current Poets Laureate and Cultural Development staff. Registration is available at WorcesterMA.gov/Cultural-Development/Poet.
Nominations and applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Oct. 27.
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