Busboys and Poets is proud to be a venue that provides space and support for poets and spoken word performers and interested audiences. From the nurturing environment of the Youth Open Mic to the high intensity of the 9th Hour Poetry Slam, we’re sure you’ll find a poetry event that sparks your creativity and leaves you inspired.

We are honored to host several world renowned poets for readings, including Amiri Baraka, Nikki Giovanni, Alice Walker, Suheir Hammad, Rita Dove, Sonia Sanchez, Elizabeth Alexander and Denis Brutus.

POETRY FAQ 

Our poetry programs:

WEEKLY OPEN MIC
$5.00 + Tax and fees online. $8.00 (tax and fees included) at the door

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. Times are subject to change. Please consult the event list for the current schedule.

14th & V: Every Tuesday 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Columbia: Every Thursday 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
450K: Every Wednesday 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Shirlington: Every Monday 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Hyattsville: Every Thursday 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Brookland: Fridays 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM

9th Hour Poetry Slam
$5.00 + Tax and fees online. $8.00 (tax and fees included) at the door

The “9th Hour" Poetry Slam provides an opportunity for poetry lovers to enjoy the competitive art of late-night performance poetry! 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. 

14th & V | 2nd Friday of every month: 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM

College Night Open Mic
$5.00 + Tax and fees online. $8.00 (tax and fees included) at the door

 For two hours audiences can expect a diverse chorus of college students voices and a vast array of spoken word performers, open mic rookies, musicians, comedians and other talents from freshmen to graduate students. Each month, we feature a different college/university or an individual alumni artist. A great alternative to the college night life! Audience is open to all, college students are encouraged to share their work!

Brookland | Every second Friday of the month: 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Pajama Jammie Jam
$5.00 + Tax and fees online. $8.00 (tax and fees included) at the door

The Pajama Jammie Jam is a love/erotica-themed slam, for everyone from professionals to novices. Hosted by Simply Sherri, at Takoma Park.

$100.00 cash prize.

There will be THREE themed rounds of poetry:

Round 1: Cupid Ain’t Sh*t!
Round 2: Love is Grand! (Love Poem)
Round 3: Freak Me, Baby! (Erotic Round)

Takoma | Fourth Friday of every month: 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm

American Sign Language (ASL) Open Mic
$5.00 + Tax and fees online. $8.00 (tax and fees included) at the door

On this night, American sign language users and viewers from all corners of life will come together to recite a poem, song, short skit or jokes. Come out and enjoy the wonderful environment while you eat, get your drink on and socialize. Great for those learning American sign language.

450K | Last Friday of every month: 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Columbia |