Santa Clarita Arts Now Accepting Entries for the 2026 Sidewalk Poetry Project Share a Santa Clarita Secret!

The City of Santa Clarita is now accepting entries for its 2026 Sidewalk Poetry Project, an initiative that brings poetry into public spaces by stamping original poems into freshly poured concrete sidewalks throughout the City. Entries are due by Sunday, December 14, 2025.

This year’s theme is “Share a Santa Clarita Secret.” Poets are encouraged to reflect on hidden gems, personal memories, moments with loved ones or the beauty of language and culture. Whether it’s a scent from childhood, a hidden hiking trail or a family tradition, the City invites writers to express the textures, sounds, colors and stories that reveal the story of Santa Clarita.

All writers, amateur and professional, are invited to submit a poem for consideration. No prior publication experience is required. Poets may submit a short original work in either free form or traditional short styles such as haiku, distich or cinquain. Only one entry per person is allowed, and team submissions will not be accepted. All work must be original and created by the individual submitting.

An Artist Selection Committee will review all qualified submissions based on originality, creativity and artistic merit. Poets whose work is selected will receive a $150 stipend, in addition to having their poem permanently stamped into a City sidewalk.

The City encourages selected poets to attend a special dedication ceremony planned for fall 2026, celebrating the installation of these poetic works throughout Santa Clarita.

For more information and to submit a poem, please visit SantaClaritaArts.com or email aeo@santaclarita.gov. 

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