Vancouver Poetry House: Verses Festival of Words 2025

Canada’s largest spoken word festival, Verses Festival of Words returns this spring from April 10–20 at Chill X Studio. With the theme of “Amplify,” this year’s Festival will focus on uplifting and creating space for artists with a long history of community building and raising awareness of social issues. In addition to the flagship event the Canadian Individual Poetry Slam (CIPS) and collaborative showcases, highlights of this year’s program include a masterclass and headliner performance by renowned poet Beau Sia, as well as the launch of the second volume in the epic fantasy trilogy by acclaimed poet Sheri-D Wilson, The ONEIRONAUT ∅2. Youth poets will kick things off at Hullabaloo, where 15 high school slam teams come together for poetry slams, workshops, and a chance to connect with creative peers from across the province.

Admission to the festival starts from $10 for advanced entry or you can purchase a festival pass for $50. There is also a pay what you can option available at the door, in keeping with Vancouver Poetry House’s “no one turned away for lack of funds.” Hullabaloo events are free to the public, but donations are welcome.