Submissions deadline: 14th August 2026
Limerick Arts Office are pleased to announce the call for entries into Poetry Slam Éigse Michael Hartnett, one of our most vibrant and much-loved events and we want YOU to be part of it.
Éigse Michael Hartnett is an established literary and arts festival held annually in Newcastle West, Co. Limerick, celebrating the life and legacy of Michael Hartnett while championing contemporary voices in Irish poetry. We offer a dynamic, intergenerational, and inclusive platform for poetry, literature, and the arts, engaging the local community and drawing audiences from across the country.
We are working in association with Poetry Ireland this year and we hope that this year’s Slam Éigse will be a high-energy event of words, wit, and performance, featuring:
· An open mic poetry slam for shortlisted finalists.
· An opportunity to hear performances from celebrated poets Daragh Fleming and Molly Twomey.
· There will be some opportunities for audience members to share their work.
We’re looking for original poetry that’s made to be performed. Whether you’re a first-time slammer or a seasoned stage poet, let your words be heard!
How it works
· Submit one original poem for consideration at this link (maximum 40 lines).
· A panel of three judges will shortlist 10 finalists to perform live at Slam Éigse.
· Those who perform will compete for the title of Slam Éigse Winner 2026
· There will be a cash prize of €200 for the winner, and €50 for two runners-up
Éigse Michael Hartnett Poetry Slam Key Details

Event date: 4pm Saturday 3rd October 2026
Venue: Whelan’s Bar, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick
Deadline for submissions: Friday 14th August 2026
How to enter: Please complete this Google form, pay the €5 entry fee and upload your poem before the closing date here
Join us in celebrating expression, diversity, and creative risk-taking at Slam Éigse 2026.
For more information about our programme, visit https://eigsemichaelhartnett.ie/
And see here for more submission opportunities on Writing.ie.
