World Poetry Day

World Poetry Day is a globally recognized observance devoted to promoting poetry in all its forms. This day is an opportunity to appreciate and explore the in-depth language of poems, admiration of artistic creativity, and the significance of vocal traditions. It aims to encourage young people and adults alike to discover the joy in verbal expression, while promoting the teaching of poetry in schools, among other venues.

World Poetry Day was established in 1999 by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) with the objective of supporting linguistic diversity through poetry and to offer endangered languages an opportunity to be heard. For Canadians, poetry holds a significant place in the cultural landscape, carrying the power to explore diverse themes of identity, heritage, and life. The country is home to several renowned poets like Robert Service, Leonard Cohen, and Louise Glück, who are celebrated for their imaginative expression of the human condition, cementing poetry's vital role in Canada's rich literary tradition.

In Canada, World Poetry Day is commemorated with a wide array of activities designed to bring poetry into the public eye. These activities range from poetry readings and public performances to special broadcasts and publications showcasing the works of Canadian poets, alongside workshops at schools and libraries aimed to stimulate interest and participation in poetry. Special events, online and offline, pay homage to the contribution of poetry in the culture and history of Canada. Canada observes World Poetry Day on the same date as the international community, every year on March 21, reflecting the unity in diversity and shared love for language and verses around the globe.