The Golden Triangle Business Improvement District is thrilled to announce the commencement of its 12th Annual International Golden Haiku Competition, which opens for entries today. This much-anticipated event invites poetry enthusiasts from all over the world to participate by submitting their original haiku poems that embody the theme of 'Bridges of Belonging.' Entries are open until January 19, 2025, and the selected works will be displayed alongside Washington D.C.'s iconic streets this coming spring.
A Tradition of Expression
For over a decade, the Golden Haiku Competition has become a cherished tradition within the community, serving as a platform for poets of all ages and backgrounds. As the President of the Golden Triangle BID, Leona Agouridis, eloquently stated, the competition not only showcases creativity but also connects people from various locales, fostering a sense of belonging—exactly as the theme suggests. Selected haiku will be prominently displayed in tree gardens along the neighborhood’s walkways, enchanting residents and visitors alike.
Free Workshop to Enhance Your Poetry Skills
To assist aspiring poets in their creative endeavors, a free haiku writing workshop will be held on January 15, 2025, at The St. Gregory Hotel. This session will feature Abigail Friedman, a distinguished haiku author and a judge for the competition, who will guide participants in crafting impactful poems. The workshop is an excellent opportunity for both newcomers and seasoned writers to refine their skills as they prepare their submissions.
Details Regarding Submissions
Writers are allowed to submit up to two original haiku, adhering to contemporary guidelines that give them flexibility on syllable counts while still capturing the essence of beauty in concise language. A panel of esteemed haiku experts will evaluate the submissions and select winners across various categories, including adult and youth segments with cash prizes that range from $75 to $500.
Judges for this year’s competition include some notable names in the haiku community:
- - Abigail Friedman: Award-winning author known for her insightful works on haiku and a former diplomat.
- - Lenard Moore: Celebrated haiku poet with over 40 years of prolific contribution in the genre and the first African American president of the Haiku Society of America.
- - Kit Pancoast Nagamura: A columnist for The Japan Times and a recognized figure in haiku literature in both the U.S. and Japan.
The deadline for submissions is swiftly approaching, as all entries must be submitted by January 19, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET. The winners will be announced in March, marking a moment of recognition for the talents and creativity of participating poets.
About the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District
Established in 1998, the Golden Triangle BID is committed to enhancing the business landscape in D.C. It serves a dynamic area encompassing 44 square blocks from The White House to Dupont Circle. For those interested in participating, please visit
goldentriangledc.com/haiku for entry forms and additional details. Stay connected with the BID on social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, to keep up with the latest updates and community news.