Poetry Out Loud

a California Arts Council Initiative

Three women standing together holding certificates, with a banner behind them that reads 'Inspiring Students Poetry Out Loud.' The women are smiling, and their certificates indicate their achievements in a poetry competition.

Poetry Out Loud is a national competition brought to Trinity County through a California Arts Council Initiative. High school students compete for cash prizes and the opportunity to advance to the next round of competition by memorizing and performing two poems of their choosing from a catalogue of 1,00 written works. They receive feedback and coaching from mentors and are judged by a panel of local thespians and writers. Read about the most recent 2026 Poetry Out Loud competition on our blog!