Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), in partnership with Chicago Public Library (CPL) and the Poetry Foundation, announced that applications for Chicago’s next Poet Laureate will be open through May 29, 2025. Launched in 2023 with poet, multidisciplinary artist and educator every young as its inaugural Poet Laureate, the program has brought poetry to public spaces to reflect this city’s vibrancy. The selected Poet Laureate will serve a two-year term (2026-2027) and receive a $70,000 honorarium for the commissioning of new poetry, public presentations and readings, and the development of public programming, focusing on programs for youth and students.

How to Apply to be the Poet Laureate

Applications for the Chicago Poet Laureate are now open through May 29. Chicago-based poets with deep ties to the city’s literary community, a commitment to community engagement and a passion for making poetry more accessible to residents are encouraged to apply. Two optional information sessions will be offered:

• Virtual: Thursday, April 24, from noon–1 p.m.

• In-person: Saturday, April 26, from 1–2 p.m. at Harold Washington Library.

To view the eligibility criteria, learn about information sessions and apply, visit chicago.gov/PoetLaureate.