Open Mics & Poetry Slams
Live Events
Our open mics and poetry slams are the perfect spot to hear raw, unfiltered talent and share your own work. Whether you're a poet, a writer, or just a fan of spoken word, these events are a great way to meet like-minded people, get inspired, and have a blast. Join us for a night of amazing performances, cool vibes, and a welcoming community. This is your chance to be part of something special!
The Poetry Pause
Third Thursdays June - September
During the Art Walk come hang out with us in the Carriage House for The Poetry Pause. You’ll hear two local poets—one seasoned and one just starting to make waves—read their work and chat about why they write. It’s a great place to sit down, cool off, and enjoy something a little different. The poetry is thoughtful, fun, and totally family-friendly, and you’ll even have the chance to ask the poets questions. Stop by and see what poetry sounds like when it’s shared out loud.
June Poets
Emily Anderson and Rayni Wekluk
Emily (she/they) brings her love of language from the classroom to the stage with wit and warmth, while Rayni taps into everyday life and humor to make her poetry relatable and thought-provoking.
July Poets
Todd Robinson and Luke Koesters
Todd, aka “The Toddfather,” is a beloved Omaha poet and educator with books from Backwaters Press and Main Street Rag, and decades of teaching and community leadership. Luke is a queer, Asian-American poet and MFA candidate whose work explores identity and expression through a contemporary lens.
August Poets
Trey Moody and Sarah Larsen
Trey, author of Thought That Nature, brings nationally recognized poetry to Omaha with pieces featured in The Atlantic and The Believer. Sarah is a graduate teaching assistant at UNO and a rising voice in Nebraska’s writing community.
September Poets
Lisa Fay Coutley and Rosine Selemani
Lisa Fay is an award-winning author of multiple poetry collections and essays, and an Associate Professor at UNO’s Writer’s Workshop. Rosine is a passionate young writer focused on telling empowering, honest stories of African and Congolese girlhood and identity.
When: 5:00-8:00
Where: In the Carriage House at Joslyn Castle & Gardens, 3902 Davenport St, Omaha
Verse & Vibes
1st Thursdays
Jules Coral, MC
An open mic at an artsy space full of good vibes, and not just because of the coffee and liquor bar ;). Open to poets, authors, writers, musicians, anyone who has talent to share. Everyone is welcome. Free event.
When: Doors open at 6:30, mic is live at 7:00
Where: Indigo Cottage Crafts
2063 Creekside Dr, Papillion
Resonance Beat Poetry Jam
2nd Mondays
Nathan Lachner, MC
Enjoy the sublime fusion of music and poetry!
Music will be provided and of course we welcome anyone to the jam who'd like to jump in. We hope to see you there!
When: 7:00
Where: Razor Wire Productions Art Gallery & Tattoo
1808 Vinton St, Omaha
Vocal Fry
3rd Thursdays
3rd Thursday of every month
Nathan Lachner and State Poet Jewel Rodgers, MCs.
Special Feature Every Month
Prepare to be moved, inspired, and electrified at the only spoken word event in Nebraska dedicated solely to the art of expression. This isn’t just another open mic night—it’s a celebration of storytelling and raw emotion, where voices from all walks of life take center stage.
Hosted in the intimate and immersive setting where every performance feels personal. Whether you're a longtime lover of spoken word or a curious newcomer, this event guarantees an unforgettable night of connection and creativity.
When: Doors open at 6:00, performances start at 7:00
Where: Local Art Plug
Flatiron Building, 1722 St Marys Ave, Omaha
Open Mics & Poetry Slams
Other Events in Nebraska
Our state is buzzing with poetry events. If you know of any events we've missed,
let us know! We're always eager to share more live poetry happenings with our community.
The below events are not sponsored by the Nebraska Poetry Society.
Please reach out to the venue listed for any questions, thank you.
Imaginary Gardens Reading Series
Third Tuesday
Public readings by local poets and authors hosted by Michael Skau, a professor emeritus at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
When: 7:00p
Where: Mister Toad's
1002 Howard St, Omaha
On Writing Presents
Second Tuesdays
Intimate reading with local authors of all walks of life.
When: 6:00p
Where: Benson Theatre
6054 Maple St, Omaha
Lincoln Poetry Slam
Second Thursdays
Describe your service here. What makes it great? Use short catchy text to tell people what you offer, and the benefits they will receive. A great description gets readers in the mood, and makes them more likely to go ahead and book.
When: 7:00p
Where: Larksong Writers Place
1600 N. Cotner Blvd, Lincoln
Writer's Night
Every Wednesday
Open mic nights showcase local poets/writers, whether you're a seasoned performer or a new comer that wants to perform in front of an audience for the first time, come on out and join the fun!
When: 6:00p
Where: Crescent Moon Coffee
140 N. 8th, Lincoln
Voices at Larksong
Third Thursdays
Monthly in-house reading series with new guests each month. Guests will include writers of all genres and (frequently) musicians.
When: 6:00p
Where: Larksong Writers Place
1600 N Cotner Blvd, Lincoln
Omaha Poetry Slam
Second Saturdays
The event begins with an open mic and then the competitive individual slam! (If you plan to compete in the slam, bring three poems.) Winner receives $50.
All the details are here.
When: 7:00p
Where: Local Art Plug
1722 St Marys Ave, Omaha