Busboys and Poets is proud to be a venue that provides space and support for poets and spoken word performers to showcase their work. From the cozy atmosphere of the Sunday Kind of Love poetry series to the high intensity of the Tuesday night open mic, Busboys and Poets is sure that you will find a poetry event that will leave you inspired and wanting to come back for more!

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  • Shirlington
  • Every Monday @ 9PM, $3
  • 14th & V
  • Every Tuesday @ 9PM, $4*
  • 5th & K
  • Every Wednesday @ 9PM, $3

Weekly Open Mic

For two hours audiences can expect a diverse chorus of voices and a vast array of professional spoken word performers, open mic rookies, musicians and a different host every week. Expect to be moved, expect a packed house, expect the unexpected, but above all come with an open mind and ear. *Wristbands for Tuesday night open mic at 14th & V are sold all day in the Bookstore beginning at 10AM until sold out. Limit of 4 wristbands per person. Sorry, No Refunds.

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  • 14th & V
  • The 9th of Every Month
  • @ 9PM

Nine on the Ninth

This monthly poetry event attributes its name from the date on which it falls; the ninth of every month. Busboys and Poets' longest running poetry series, 9 on the 9th, is a special event hosted exclusively by Derrick Weston Brown, the Poet-In-Residence of Busboys and Poets, 14th & V. This program is centered around a unique featured artist, and unlike open mic, this event is FREE, though donations are encouraged.

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  • 14th & V
  • Every 3rd Sunday
  • @ 4PM

Sunday Kind of Love

Sunday Kind of Love features emerging and established poets from the Washington, DC area and around the nation. Each program includes featured poet(s) and an open mic segment centered around a predetermined social or poetic theme. Hosted by various local poets, Sunday Kind of Love has showcased poets as diverse as Esther Iverem, Richard Blanco, and Kathi Wolfe.

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  • 14th & V
  • 2nd Friday of Every Month
  • @ 11PM, $5

11th Hour Poetry Slam

The 11th hour poetry slam gives poetry lovers an opportunity to enjoy the competitive art of performance poetry late night. Enjoy two rounds of high intensity poetry - with the audience choosing a winner. Come join us for an alternative way to spend your Friday night.

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  • 14th & V
  • Last Friday of Every Month
  • @ 11PM, $3

ASL Open Mic

ASL Open Mic. A place where Sign Language unifies with poets and music. On this night, American sign language users and viewers from all corners of life will come together to recite a poem or a song. This is an open stage for anyone who wants to share written inspiration. Come out and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere while you eat, get your drink on and socialize. Plus, it's great for those learning American Sign Language. Hosted by DJ Supalee.

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  • 5th & K
  • 4th Wed of Every Month
  • @ 9PM, $3

*SPARKLE*

*SPARKLE* Open Mic Poetry is a queer-friendly reading series hosted by Regie Cabico and Danielle Evennou! Admission is $3. Tickets are sold beginning at 8:30 PM until sold out. Limit of 4 tickets per person. Cash only, all sales final.

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  • 5th & K
  • 4th Sat of Every Month
  • @ 5PM, $3

Youth Poetry

An open mic platform for youth poets ages 12-18. Admission is $3 (Cash only. Tickets sold at the door). Youth Poetry Open Mic takes place every last Saturday of the month at our 5th & K location.

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