Printemps des Poètes en Loir-et-Cher

The Printemps des Poètes: Poetry Celebration in Loir-et-Cher

Each year in March, the Printemps des Poètes makes poetry bloom throughout Loir-et-Cher. This national and international event, created in 1999 under the patronage of Jack Lang, then a deputy for Loir-et-Cher, aims to raise awareness of poetry among all audiences and to bring it out of books and into daily life.

A Flourishing of Poetic Events

For two to three weeks, a multitude of poetic events unfolds across the department:

• Readings and recitals: actors, poets, and volunteers give voice to poetry in media libraries, libraries, bookshops, and public spaces
• Writing workshops: led by poets and writers, they invite everyone to explore their own poetic creativity
• Meetings with poets: contemporary authors meet the public to share their universe and their approach
• Exhibitions: of texts, illustrations, and visual works inspired by poetry
• Live performances: shows combining poetry, music, dance, and visual arts

Poetry in Loir-et-Cher's Media Libraries

The department's media libraries play a central role in the Printemps des Poètes. The Maurice-Genevoix Media Library in Blois, and the media libraries in Vendôme, Romorantin-Lanthenay, and other towns in the department offer thematic displays, book selections, readings, and creative workshops around the annual theme.

A National Theme Adapted Locally

Each edition of the Printemps des Poètes revolves around a national theme that inspires local programming. The 2026 edition's theme is “Liberty: a living force, unfurled,” an invitation to explore the links between poetry and emancipation. This theme resonates particularly in Loir-et-Cher, a land of poets—from Pierre de Ronsard, a native of the Vendômois region, to Charles d'Orléans, poet of the Château de Blois.

Poetry in Schools

The Printemps des Poètes in Loir-et-Cher places great importance on engaging young audiences. Schools in the department actively participate in the event through educational projects, poetry contests, poetic intervention brigades, and meetings between students and contemporary poets.