5th Annual Haiku Newton Poetry Contest 2026
February 18 – March 20
A Spark Newton Signature Event
Every year Spark Newton shares the joy of poetry throughout the city through its Haiku Newton public art initiative. Dozens of poets from in and around Newton submit their Haikus to the annual contest. Traditionally, Haiku Newton selects 20-30 poems for public display. Writers include poets of all ages ,from students to grandparents to published poets, and to aspiring creatives.
2026 Contest Themes: Discovery & Transition
- Beginnings, Transitions, Farewells
- Life Stages (a baby’s birth, the first day of school, loss of a loved one)
- Surprising experiences (a lesson learned, a new love)
- Nature (a sunset, a wave break)
- Seasons or Times of Day
Inspiration for Your Haiku
The most successful Haikus are built around one single image, serving as a visual snapshot of a theme or feeling. Plus they often feature a “turn” in the poem that adds a new dimension to the image or widens the scope.
Entry Details & How to Participate
- Deadline: March 20
- Open to residents of Newton and surrounding neighborhoods
- Categories: Adult, Student (Grades K-8), Student (Grades 9-12)
- Submissions: 1 or 2 Haikus, previously unpublished, original work
- Entry Fee: None
- Adjudication: Panel of 3 judges
- Directors: Grey Held, Elizabeth Lund, Greg Fulchino
Winning Entries
- An honorarium of $20 will be granted to each winner
- Winners will be publicized in Spark Newton print and online media
- Winning poems will be displayed on decorative plaques throughout Newton from late April (National Poetry Month) through July.
- The program also features live readings of all the winning haikus of the season. Check back for dates, times, and location.
