Scotland's International Poetry Festival

Thanks to all who joined us for StAnza 2026! 

Missed any of the action? Catch up on our livestreamed events below.

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An invigorating weekend of poetry, ideas, discussions. Uplifting, interesting, urgent.

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StAnza is my favourite time of year in St Andrews. It shows you that poetry can come in many different voices, forms, and dialogues – and even people that think they do not like poetry come to see that they can and do love poetry because there is something for everyone.

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I have a pile of books by new poets I have never come across before by my bed, and voices in my head. Thank you StAnza!

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StAnza is always great fun, social, increases connectivity within the community and a valuable international event that I know many people look forward to all year long, until the next StAnza.

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The highlight for me was being with other people and just listening and enjoying the poetry.

StAnza is a dynamic, welcoming poetry festival held in the historic town of St Andrews every March.

StAnza is proud to bring together a unique range of voices each year for a jam-packed weekend to provide fresh perspective on an annual theme. The festival ushers in the spring with a lively and wide-ranging programme of events, spanning poetry, visual art, music, performance and much more.

As international as we are Scottish, our annual festival explores cutting-edge questions about poetry and its relationship with the world, alongside a commitment to enable ever greater numbers of people to enjoy poetry in all of its varied and wonderful forms.

The stunning coastal town of St Andrews inspires creativity with its historic buildings and glittering sea, and is the perfect home for a festival that brims with ideas and energy. StAnza is a true highlight of Scotland’s cultural calendar and a welcoming community for poetry lovers, old and new.

Our Supporters

Becoming a Supporter of StAnza is the best way to get great tickets and ensure the longevity of the festival

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Well Versed

A project encouraging more reading of poetry and the setting up of poetry book groups

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Future Programmers Lab

A new initiative to support emerging literary programmers in developing their practice.

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Poetry map

Can the shape and nature of Scotland be drawn entirely in poetry?

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Support StAnza

StAnza is a registered Scottish charity (Charity No. SC 031789), and donations and other offers of financial support make crucial contributions to our ability to deliver the festival every year. You can donate to StAnza directly using the PayPal form below.

Thankyou!