Le Printemps des Poètes - Bas-Rhin

The Printemps des Poètes in Bas-Rhin: Poetry for Everyone

Since 1999, the Printemps des Poètes has been a national event that celebrates poetry throughout the month of March. In Bas-Rhin, and particularly in Strasbourg, this event takes on remarkable scope thanks to the commitment of the Maison de la Poésie and a dense network of bookstores, libraries, associations, and cultural venues.

A National Theme, Local Variations

Each year, the Printemps des Poètes is placed under a national theme that inspires all the events. In 2026, the theme "Liberty, a living force, unfurled" invites us to explore the place of poetry in societies facing censorship, war, or repression. In Strasbourg, this theme is explored through readings, recitals, writing workshops, and meetings with contemporary poets.

Events Throughout the City

The Strasbourg program is particularly rich and varied. Bookstores — Dinali, Le Fil Rouge, La Tache Noire, L'Indépendante — host poetry cafes, readings, and minute-poem sessions offered to passers-by. Cafes and bars — le Bachelier, le Divanoo, le Blue Note Café — transform into open poetry stages. The Temple Neuf hosts the grand recitals of the Académie rhénane, a strong tradition of Strasbourg poetry.

The Maison de la Poésie of Strasbourg

Run by passionate volunteers, the Maison de la Poésie is the driving force behind Strasbourg's poetic life throughout the year. It coordinates the Printemps des Poètes events in Bas-Rhin, organizes author meetings, and supports contemporary poetic creation, particularly from the Neudorf district where it is located in partnership with the bookstore L'Indépendante.

Poetry Beyond Strasbourg

The Printemps des Poètes irrigates the entire Bas-Rhin department: media libraries, schools, cultural centers, and community venues in Haguenau, Sélestat, Obernai, Saverne, and many other towns offer poetic activities throughout March, making this highlight a true decentralized poetry festival.