Curated by PGAHC's Office of the Poet Laureate and in celebration of National Poetry Month, the 2024 Festival of Literary Arts is purposed to support the cultural life of Prince George’s County by celebrating rich literary culture, engaging readers, supporting poets, writers and literary scholars, facilitating conversations, and inspiring the next generation through great literature and poetry. This event highlights the vibrant literary arts scene in Prince George's County with an array of literary talent in a series of events that include author readings, panel discussions, forums and much more.

 
 

FOLA Host & Moderator

DR. KHADIJAH ALI-COLEMAN

Prince George's County Poet Laureate

 

POETS DAY PARTY

SUNDAY, APRIL 7, 2024 | 1:00–4:00 PM

ARTS’TINATION | 162 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, MD

Join us for an afternoon filled with live poetry readings, spontaneous performances, and engaging discussions, as we gather to honor the beauty of language and the power of expression. Whether you're a seasoned poet or simply curious about the magic of poetry, this event promises to be a joyful exploration of the written and spoken word. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow poetry enthusiasts and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of literature.

 

From US to Cuba: The Friendship of Poets Langston Hughes and Nicolas Guillen

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 | 6:00–7:30 PM

South Bowie Branch Library | 15301 Hall Rd., Bowie, MD

Discover the profound bond between two iconic poets as we delve into the friendship and artistic collaboration of Langston Hughes and Nicolas Guillen. Through engaging presentations, readings, and discussions, we'll explore how their shared experiences shaped their poetry and transcended borders.

Meet Your Prince George’s County Poet Laureate

Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | 6:30–7:30 PM

 

BOWIE BRANCH LIBRARY | 15210 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD

Prince George's County Poet Laureate will read from her 2023 collection of poems, The Summoning of Black Joy, and share new work from her forthcoming book, For the Girls Who Do Too Much, set to be released June 2024. Dr. Ali-Coleman was born in Washington D.C. and has lived in Prince George's County, MD since 1985. She is a playwright, singer/songwriter, children's book author, and education researcher.

Join us for an intimate evening with our esteemed Prince George's County Poet Laureate, Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman, as she invites you on a journey through the pages of her captivating collections. Delve into the heart and soul of her poetry as she reads selected poems and excerpts, sharing insights into her creative process and the inspirations behind her lines and verses. Don't miss this rare opportunity to connect with our community's literary ambassador and immerse yourself in the beauty of language and expression.