Bard of Exeter Competition 2026

About

A free, fun & lively event at Exeter Library where we'll appoint the next official "Bard of Exeter" in an evening of poetry and performance

The next Bard of Exeter will be chosen at the annual Bardic Competition; a local poet, performer or storyteller will be picked to officially represent Exeter and its people for the next year. You're invited to come along, hear the Bardic hopefuls, and to vote for your favourite. Plus, performances and entertainment from the outgoing Bard - Kev Payne, and more guest to be announced

Always a fantastic, eclectic and surprising event full of poetry and music - come along to have your say and get involved!
This is a free event, though places are limited and booking is strongly recommended. There will be a pop-up bar serving alcoholic and soft drinks.

ABOUT THE BARD
Exeter is one of the few cities with the ancient right to appoint a Bard, in a tradition that stretches back centuries. Modern Bards have included Liv Torc and Edward Tripp, and have gone on to win national slams, become the Poet Laureate for Exeter City FC, and present poetry internationally at COP26 (to name just a few achievements!)

The Bard of Exeter represents the land & people of Exeter and surrounding areas for a year and a day, with a bunch of perks plus some fancy blue robes chucked in! This year, the role is supported by Exeter Library, Exeter UNESCO City of Literature, Taking the Mic and Spork! Poetry.

For more info on what it involves and how to apply, visit:
www.exetercityofliterature.com/bard-of-exeter [https://www.exetercityofliterature.com/bard-of-exeter]