POET TAP

Our contest is judged by a diverse group of Bay Area literary and creative professionals, including a local novelist and film producer whose published works are available on Amazon, and a Bay Area historian, painter, and scholar of East Asian arts and culture. Additional writers, artists, historians, and creative professionals may be invited to serve as judges.

Poets of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to participate — from children and teens to adults and older adults. Whether you are submitting your first poem or are an experienced writer, we welcome your voice, imagination, and unique perspective.

This is a judged, skill-based writing contest. Entries are evaluated by our judges based on the quality, originality, creativity, expression, and overall impact of the submitted work. Winners are selected by the judges according to the contest's published judging criteria.

Up to $3,000 in total prizes may be awarded, subject to available funding and sponsorship. Prize amounts and the number of awards may vary for each contest period.

$10 per poem submission.

Entries: Rolling and continuous throughout the year.

>> SEPTEMBER IS ALREADY HEADED TO BE ONE OF OUR BIGGEST CASH PRIZE!!!

Monthly Deadline: Submissions received during each month will be considered for that month's contest period.

Winner Announcements: Winners will be announced at the end of each month.

Winner Reading: Selected winners will be invited to participate in a winner's reading, with the date and details announced with the winning selections.

We welcome voluntary contributions from individuals, organizations, and supporters who would like to help support the continuation and growth of the writing contest and related literary activities.

Contributions are completely voluntary and are not required to enter the contest, receive consideration, or improve an entrant's chances of winning.

For information about supporting the contest, please see our Support Us section.