Lyra Bristol Poetry Festival
News
Lyra Bristol Poetry Festival returns to Bristol
Tuesday, 29 April, 2025Lyra Bristol Poetry Festival has returned with an impressive ten-day lineup of events, running from 25 April – 4 May across leading arts venues in the bustling city of Bristol.
Bath Spa University is a proud partner of the Lyra Bristol Poetry Festival. Co-directed by BSU Professor Creative Enterprise, Lucy English and BSU MA Transnational Writing graduate, Danny Pandolfi, the University invites poetry enthusiasts to come along for an eclectic celebration of words, creativity, and community.
Professor of Creative Enterprise and the Spoken Word, Lucy English, discussed what the public can expect:
“At Lyra we believe that poetry is for everyone. We’ve worked hard this year to put together a programme which is dynamic, inclusive and fun. We’re especially looking forward to our family themed events on 3-4 May where even the youngest children can engage with poetry.”
From readings and slams to digital media and walking tours, the festival will feature a dynamic mix of readings, workshops, family activities, open mics, panel discussions, and a poetry and performance retreat – welcoming both local talent and world-renowned poets.
Adam Crowther, BBC Upload presenter, said:
“Lyra Festival provides a real opportunity for people to engage with poetry and spoken word. It’s accessible, it’s fun, and it cements Bristol and the West Country as the UK’s home of creativity.”
Firmly established as a leading literary festival, Lyra is committed to ‘poetry for everyone’ and boasts a diverse steering committee, delivering over 30 participatory and inclusive events. This year’s theme, ‘Weird and Wild’ encompasses nature and wildlife, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in Bristol’s natural landscape.
Lyra 2025 promises an impressive lineup of headline performers, including internet sensations, spoken word powerhouses, award-winning poets, and former slam champions.
Discussing a previous event, Poet and Performance Artist, Travis Alabanza, said:
“Seeing Bristol not only buzzing with an incredibly diverse array of literary events for ten days but attended by such a varied mix of people and tastes, was inspiring. I hope Lyra has many more chances to grow and expand, as it’s becoming a staple part of the city’s artistic calendar.”
Granting accessibility for poetry enthusiasts everywhere, the event is available online and in-person; equipped with BSL, captioned events, and wheelchair-friendly venues. For tickets and to view the full lineup of performers, visit the Lyra Bristol Poetry Festival website.
Image credit: Sam Cavender