Lyra is a Bristol-based organisation delivering the annual Lyra - Bristol Poetry Festival, Bristol City Poet, Bristol Young City Poet, and other outreach projects. Lyra brings together local, national and international poets and speakers, representing Bristol as a centre of world class poetry.
Lyra Festival returns from April 25th - May 4th 2025.
Scroll down to browse the full programme.
Use the filter to locate specific event types (eg. workshops, BSL interpreted).
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        “Seeing Bristol not only buzzing with an incredible diverse array of literary events for 10 days, but attended by such a varied mix of people and tastes, was inspiring. I hope Lyra has many more chances to grow and expand, as it is becoming a staple part to the city’s artistic calendar”- Travis Alabanza, poet and performance artist. 
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        “Lyra Festival provides a real opportunity for people to engage with poetry and spoken word. It’s accessible, it’s fun, and it cements Bristol and the West Country as the UK’s home of creativity.”- Adam Crowther, BBC Upload Presenter 
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        Lyra was one of the best festivals I have ever taken part in, so warm, inclusive, lively, fun, with packed audience and incredibly helpful team – everyone made me feel very welcome and what an enjoyable vibe you have!- Pascale Petit (guest poet, 2025) 
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        Unbelievably good programming, planning and hosting. Lyra makes a difference to so many poets and people’s lives by having this festival. You’ve made me feel like I really do belong in this world - thank you’Susie Wilson (guest poet, 2025) 
 
                         
                
                
               
                
                
               
                
                
               
                
                
               
                      