In the heart of Placer County, the annual Voices of Lincoln Poetry Contest stands as a vibrant celebration of literature, offering young residents in Lincoln, CA, a premier platform to showcase their creativity. Organized by the Poets Club of Lincoln and supported by the local library and Friends of the Lincoln Library, this competition encourages poets of all ages—including a dedicated “Young Poets” category for those 18 and under—to explore their poetic voice.

The contest, which has a rich history (marking its 20th year in 2024), invites students to submit original, unpublished work based on an annual theme, such as “Leap Into Poetry” or “People Are… Everything”. This focus allows young writers to engage with community-driven topics, exploring themes of life, emotion, and local identity. The competition often attracts dozens of entries from elementary to high school-aged poets, proving that the art of poetry is thriving in Lincoln’s youth community.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Voices of Lincoln competition is its accessibility. There is typically no entry fee, making it open to all budding writers, whether they are hobbyists or aspiring professional poets. Participants can submit multiple entries, encouraging them to experiment with different styles and subjects within the thematic categories.

The pinnacle of the contest is not just the competition, but the recognition. Winners have their work published in a commemorative chapbook anthology, providing them with a tangible record of their achievement. Furthermore, winners are invited to read their poems aloud at a special “Voices of Lincoln” event, usually held at the Twelve Bridges Library, where they receive their awards and congratulations from the local arts community.

Beyond this, the Lincoln Public Library also hosts its own Summer Youth Writing Contest, often running from May to July, where students 17 or under can submit poetry for a chance to be published in a digital anthology, further fostering a literary culture in town.

The Voices of Lincoln Poetry Contest is more than just a competition; it is a vital initiative that builds confidence, fosters creativity, and gives young residents of Lincoln a meaningful way to contribute to their local community’s artistic legacy. For students with a passion for words, it is an opportunity to be heard.