This is the first we’ve heard of this holiday, but it sounds fun to us: Thursday, April 26, is “National Poem in Your Pocket Day.”
Part of National Poetry Month, Poem in Your Pocket Day encourages literati to “select a poem, carry it with you, and share it with others at schools, bookstores, libraries, parks, workplaces, street corners, and on social media using the hashtag #pocketpoem.”
Poem in Your Pocket Day was initiated in April 2002 by the Office of the Mayor in New York City, in partnership with the city’s Departments of Cultural Affairs and Education. In 2008, the Academy of American Poets took the initiative to all fifty United States, encouraging individuals around the country to participate. In 2016, the League of Canadian Poets extended Poem in Your Pocket Day to Canada.
Unsure about how your sharing will be received? You can download a PDF of helpful instructions.
Tip of the cap to Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville, who turned us onto this holiday. This indie bookseller is handing out FREE poems every day in April. They have a board in the store for customers to write down their favorite poem title or poet. They will also hold a drawing to win a prize (winners announced April 26).
Much obliged!