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National Take a Poet to Lunch Day

Show your love for poetry and support for poets by taking one out to lunch on National Take a Poet to Lunch Day! Your taste buds and heart will thank you.

Wednesday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 6

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYPop Culture

SUBCATEGORYBooks

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate the power of poetry on National Take a Poet to Lunch Day on January 6! This day was created in 1995 by American poet and professor Arnold Adoff, with the goal of bringing poets and poetry lovers together over a good meal. It's a chance to show appreciation for the art of poetry and the talented individuals who create it. Whether you're a fan of classic poets like Shakespeare or modern wordsmiths like Maya Angelou, this holiday is a perfect opportunity to connect with others through the beauty of language. So grab your favorite poet (or maybe even discover a new one) and treat them to a delicious lunch – because good food and great verses go hand in hand!

TIMELINE

National Take a Poet to Lunch Day Timeline

Holiday Inception

American poet and professor Arnold Adoff establishes National Take a Poet to Lunch Day to foster a deeper appreciation for poetry and poets.

Growing Recognition

Awareness and recognition of National Take a Poet to Lunch Day starts to spread, primarily through word of mouth and poetry reading events.

National Media Coverage

The holiday starts to receive coverage in national media, leading to an increased interest among the general public.

Social Media Boost

The use of social media platforms gives the holiday a significant boost, encouraging celebrations across the globe.

Colleges and Universities Join In

Several colleges and universities around the world start to officially recognize the holiday, hosting events on their campuses.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Take a Poet to Lunch Day

Host a poetry reading and lunch

Invite your friends and family to join you for a poetry reading event followed by a delicious lunch. Ask everyone to bring their favorite poem to share and enjoy the company of poets and poetry lovers.

TAKE

Take a poet to your favorite lunch spot

Reach out to a local poet and invite them to join you for lunch at your favorite restaurant. This is a great way to support the local arts community and have some inspiring conversations over a delicious meal.

CREATE

Create a poetry-themed menu

Get creative in the kitchen and come up with a menu inspired by famous poems or poets. Serve dishes named after poems or incorporate quotes into the menu design for a unique and fun dining experience.

ATTEND

Attend a poetry workshop and lunch

Sign up for a poetry workshop at your local community center or library and then grab lunch with your fellow poets afterwards. This is a great way to improve your writing skills and connect with others who share your passion for poetry.

HAVE

Have a picnic with poems

Pack a picnic lunch and head to your favorite park or scenic spot. Bring along some of your favorite poems or poetry books to read aloud and enjoy the beauty of nature while celebrating Take a Poet to Lunch Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Take a Poet to Lunch Day

It can lead to interesting conversations and insights

Having lunch with a poet can open up discussions about different styles and techniques in poetry, as well as the inspiration behind their work. This can offer new perspectives and deepen our understanding and appreciation for the art form.

It's a unique way to celebrate poetry

National Take a Poet to Lunch Day is a fun and creative way to honor the art of poetry. Instead of just reading or writing poems, this special day encourages us to connect with poets on a personal level and show appreciation for their work!

It supports poets and their craft

By taking a poet to lunch, you are not only showing them recognition for their talent, but you are also supporting their career. It allows poets to network with others and potentially gain more exposure for their work.