From the lively open mic nights at Spiderhouse to the renowned Austin Poetry Slam, Austin is known for its vibrant spoken word and poetry slam scene. Whether you’re looking to just sit back and listen or take the mic and show off your skills, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we’ll explore the top spoken word and poetry slam events in Austin.
- Austin Poetry Slam
- Saturday Night Special
- The Open Mic Experience
- Big Word Wednesdays
- The Poetry Bus
- The Nuyorican Poets Cafe
- Slam Austin
- Poetry & Prose
1. Austin Poetry Slam
Austin Poetry Slam is a must-experience event for any fan of spoken word and slam poetry. Founded in 1996, it has become an iconic Austin event and is the longest running weekly poetry slam in the country. The organization hosts weekly slams at the Spider House Ballroom, and showcases some of the most talented poets in Austin. The slam includes several rounds of intense poetry battles, with the crowd and judges determining the winner of each round.
While the poets battle it out, the audience is encouraged to cheer and chant along, making the event a unique and unforgettable experience. The atmosphere is also full of energy and excitement, and it’s a great way to meet new people and share ideas. After the competition, the night usually concludes with a relaxed open mic and a chance to mingle with the other poets.
The quality of the work showcased at Austin Poetry Slam is world-class, and the event draws some of the top spoken word and slam poetry artists in the country. For anyone looking to experience some of the most creative and inspiring poetry in Austin, this is the place to be. It’s a great way to spend a Wednesday night, and you won’t be disappointed with the exceptional talent and unique atmosphere.
2. Saturday Night Special
The Saturday Night Special is a weekly open mic night at Spiderhouse in Austin, Texas. Every Saturday, the café is filled with the sound of passionate poets and storytellers sharing their creative works. The event is open to all, from seasoned veterans to those who are just getting started. Whether you have something to share or just want to listen, you’ll find something to enjoy.
The night is hosted by one of Austin’s most beloved spoken word artists, A.M. He never fails to keep the energy high and the crowd entertained with his unique blend of comedy and poetry. The event also features guest performances from some of the most talented poets and performers in the area.
The Saturday Night Special is a great way to kick off your weekend. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and supportive. Everyone is encouraged to participate and be themselves. It’s a great way to get to know the local spoken word and poetry slam scene and make some new friends.
No matter what your skill level is, the Saturday Night Special is a wonderful way to explore your creativity. So come out and share your stories, poems, songs, and more. The Saturday Night Special is a great way to start your weekend with a night of celebration and self-expression!
3. The Open Mic Experience
At the Open Mic Experience, the stage is open to anyone and everyone who wants to share their creative talents. Every Tuesday night, the Sahara Lounge is filled with a diverse mix of spoken word, music, and other performance art. For those looking to take the mic, there’s always a supportive crowd ready to listen to your work. Even if you’re not performing, you can still enjoy the show from the audience.
The Open Mic Experience is a great place to start for those who are new to spoken word and poetry slams. It’s a safe and welcoming environment for people of all ages and experience levels. The hosts of the Open Mic Experience encourage everyone to come out and share their work, as well as take the time to listen and support others.
At the Open Mic Experience, you can expect to see a variety of styles and genres of performance art. Whether it’s spoken word, music, dance, or anything else, everyone is encouraged to share their unique talents. Even if you’re not a performer, you can still enjoy the show from the audience.
For those looking to explore Austin’s vibrant spoken word and poetry slam scene, the Open Mic Experience is a great place to start. It’s a safe and welcoming environment for people of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re looking to take the mic or just enjoy the show, you’ll be sure to find something to enjoy.
4. Big Word Wednesdays
Big Word Wednesdays at Malvern Books is one of the most beloved and well-known spoken word and poetry slam events in Austin. Every Wednesday, artists, poets, and wordsmiths come out to share their own original works and to enjoy performances by other members of the community.
The event is hosted by local poet and spoken word artist, Kona Morris. Kona is an Austin native and has been hosting Big Word Wednesdays for over two years now. She has a unique style of spoken word that incorporates elements of jazz, blues, and hip-hop, and her sets are always a crowd pleaser.
Big Word Wednesdays also features a variety of special guest performers, who bring their own unique flavor to the mix. Recent performers have included Austin’s own poets, musicians, and comedians. The event has become a great way to discover new artists and experience the local spoken word and poetry slam scene.
The atmosphere at Big Word Wednesdays is always welcoming and encouraging. It’s a great place to come out and share your spoken word and poetry, whether you’re an experienced performer or just starting out. And if you’d rather just sit back and listen, you won’t be disappointed either.
So come out to Malvern Books every Wednesday night and experience Big Word Wednesdays for yourself. You’ll be glad you did.
5. The Poetry Bus
The Poetry Bus is an open mic night held every other month at the Austin Central Library. It’s a great place to come out and share your poetry and spoken word. The Poetry Bus is unique in that it is open to all ages and welcomes both new and experienced poets. It’s a great way to get your work out there and meet new people.
The atmosphere is electric with the energy of the crowd and the enthusiasm of the performers. The Poetry Bus also has a full bar and food truck, adding to the creative atmosphere. During each night, there are two rounds of performances where poets can share their work. It’s a great opportunity to network with other poets and get feedback on your work.
The Poetry Bus is the perfect place to start if you’re new to the spoken word and poetry slam scene in Austin. You can get your feet wet without feeling intimidated or overwhelmed. Experienced poets can also hone their skills here, as the atmosphere is supportive and welcoming.
The Poetry Bus is an event you don’t want to miss if you’re in the Austin area. It’s a great way to hone your craft and connect with other poets in the community. So come out and share your words with the world!
6. The Nuyorican Poets Cafe
The Nuyorican Poets Cafe is a monthly open mic night held at the North Door that celebrates and showcases the diverse creativity of the Austin spoken word and poetry scene. It’s an event that is truly unique in that it blends the artistic vibrancy of Austin with the cultural diversity of New York City.
At each Nuyorican Poets Cafe event, attendees can expect to experience a night of eclectic spoken word performances and poems from talented artists of all backgrounds. From the seasoned pros to the rookies just starting out, the night is filled with passionate performances that leave audiences inspired and energized.
In addition to the performances, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe also offers a creative writing workshop with a focus on spoken word and poetry. This workshop is perfect for those looking to hone their craft and learn more about the art of spoken word.
At the end of the night, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe also hosts an open mic night where anyone can come up and share their work. It’s a great way to meet other poets, share your work, and get constructive feedback from the community.
Overall, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe is an amazing event that celebrates the unique culture of Austin’s spoken word and poetry slam scene. It’s a great place to come out and share your work with the Austin community, and an unforgettable experience for both performers and listeners alike.
7. Slam Austin
Slam Austin is a must-see for anyone wanting to explore the vibrant spoken word and poetry scene in Austin. Hosted at the iconic Spiderhouse Ballroom once a month, it’s the perfect place to come out and show off your skills in front of an energetic and supportive audience. The event is open to anyone with an interest in spoken word or poetry, regardless of age or experience.
At Slam Austin, you can expect to hear amazing performances from poets and spoken word artists of all styles and backgrounds. From classic spoken word pieces to more innovative rap-like poems, the competition features an impressive range of genres and styles. The event is also known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a crowd that is passionate and enthusiastic about spoken word and poetry.
Slam Austin is a great opportunity for poets and spoken word artists to get out there and show off their skills. All performers are given the chance to share their work with the crowd in front of a supportive and engaging audience. There is also a special panel of judges who give feedback for each performance, providing useful advice for poets and spoken word artists of all levels.
Whether you’re an experienced spoken word artist or just starting out, Slam Austin is the perfect place to come out and express yourself. With its energetic atmosphere and supportive crowd, it offers the perfect opportunity for poets and spoken word artists to share their work and hone their skills.
So if you’re looking to explore Austin’s vibrant spoken word and poetry slam scene, be sure to check out Slam Austin at the Spiderhouse Ballroom. You’ll be sure to have an amazing experience!
8. Poetry & Prose
At Poetry & Prose, the energy is always palpable. Every Sunday, the Blue Genie Art Industries is filled with a diverse array of creative minds, all eager to share their work. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, the supportive atmosphere of this open mic night is sure to make you feel welcome.
The event is hosted by the talented and warm-hearted poet, Toni Jones. From the moment she takes the stage, you can feel the energy in the room shift. She pours her soul into her words and invites everyone to join her in her journey. With her charismatic presence, Toni is sure to make everyone feel like a part of the family.
The performers at Poetry & Prose come from all walks of life and with a wide variety of styles. From classic poetry to modern spoken word, each and every piece will leave you in awe. Whether you are looking for comical anecdotes or heart-wrenching narratives, you are sure to find it here.
The evening culminates with a performance by the house band, The Poetry Pirates. This dynamic group of musicians will take your breath away with their passionate melodies. They’ll have you on your feet, singing and dancing along to their infectious rhythms.
If you’re looking for a unique and fun evening, Poetry & Prose is the perfect place to be. Come out and share your work with a supportive audience, or just sit back and enjoy the show. No matter what you do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.
