2025 Youth Speaks Teen Poetry Slam is here!
For over 25 years, the Youth Speaks Teen Poetry Slam has propelled spoken word around the globe. Youth from all over the Bay compete to become a finalist and represent the Bay Area at Brave New Voices — the only 4-day international youth poetry festival in the world — celebrating arts education, performance, and civic engagement.
Poetry Slams are an Olympic-style competition where poets have 3 minutes and 30 seconds to share their original work! No props, costumes, or musical accompaniment allowed, only you and the power of youth voice.
The Teen Poetry Slam and Brave New Voices Festival is an annual tradition celebrating some of the most astounding young writers and performers from around the globe.
Slam Season
This event is free to attend and open to youth of all ages, adults, and poetry lovers.
Registration for competing poets is now open at the link below. On the day of the slams, sign-ups will be on a first-come, first-served basis so early arrival is strongly encouraged.
For Homies, Family, and audience members If you can’t witness the magic in person, all of our events this January-April will be live-streamed on the Youth Speaks Youtube Channel so be sure to follow us on all social platforms @youthspeaks to never miss out on that good word.
Tickets are now on sale at the links below.
Teen Poetry Slam Prelims #1
Friday, January 31, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Sign Up List Opens @ 5:00 PM (24 Spots)
New Parkway Theater
474 24th St., Oakland, CA 94612
Teen Poetry Slam Prelims #2
Friday, February 21, 2025
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sign Up List Opens @ 5:00 PM (24 Spots)
KQED
2601 Mariposa St., San Francisco, CA
Teen Poetry Slam Semi-Finals
Friday, March 21, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
SF Public Library - Koret Auditorium
100 Larkin St., San Francisco, CA
Teen Poetry Slam Finals
Friday, April 25, 2025
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Brava Theater Center
2781 24th St., San Francisco, CA
COVID Protocol
As we continue to explore new opportunities to gather & build community within an ever-changing world, here is an update on the ways we will continue to practice harm reduction & remain accountable for your safety.
In the interest of maintaining a safe and accountable environment for all participants, masking is encouraged but not required. All performing poets will receive a COVID-19 test before hitting the stage.
2024 Finals Winners
Clap it up for the six young Teen Poetry Slam Finals artists selected to represent the Bay Area at the Brave New Voices Festival in Washington, D.C. last July.
Pictured (from left to right): Jo, Salima, Xochi, Lian, Marvin, Mallory.
