If you’re visiting Malta in March and appreciate words, culture, and artistic expression, there’s an event worth attending coming up shortly. Today, 21 March, the University of Malta Library and Poetry Jam Malta are joining forces to mark World Poetry Day. Poets, listeners, and the curious will find this gathering a fantastic opportunity to engage with the art of expression. 

UNESCO established World Poetry Day in 1999 to champion poetry through reading, writing, and publishing while also preserving languages and promoting cultural dialogue. This year’s local event will bring together voices from Malta, Argentina, and Chile. The theme, ‘The Transformative Role of Poetry in Society,’ highlights poetry’s ability to inspire, challenge, and connect people. Recitations will take centre stage, with language and emotion intertwining to create a memorable evening. Set within the University of Malta’s library, the evening will feature poetry in English, Maltese, and Spanish.

Beyond the spoken word, the event creates a real sense of community and is sure to be a way to make new friends. Locals and visitors alike can share their thoughts, listen to different perspectives, and take part in the open-mic session. Anyone is welcome to contribute a poem in their preferred language or simply absorb the creative energy of the space.

One of the event’s organisers, Roberto Salazar of Poetry Jam Malta, describes it as an opportunity to generate poetry that resonates deeply and fills Maltese society with dreams. Whether you choose to bring your own words, a friend, or just an appreciation for poetry, the event promises a welcoming atmosphere where ideas and emotions flow freely. If you find yourself in Malta, step into this space where words take on a life of their own.

This event will be held at the Main Library of the University of Malta in the Periodicals Department on Level 1. It will run from 5pm to 8pm on 21 March.