• Yes! NYC PoFest happens rain or shine—so come prepared for sunshine, sprinkles, or whatever the sky has in store.

  • Here’s your Poetopia packing list to help you make the most of the festival:

    • Sunscreen – Protect your poetic glow

    • Refillable water bottle – Stay hydrated (water stations are available!)

    • Picnic blanket or folding chair – For lounging in the grass at Nolan Park

    • Cash/card – To support our amazing vendors

    • Notebook or journal – You might feel inspired

    • Tote bag – For all the books and handmade goodies you’ll discover

    • Hat or sunglasses – It gets bright out there

    • Rain gear – Just in case

    • Phone/camera – Capture the magic

    • Ferry ticket – Or your MetroCard if you're buying at the dock

    • A good friend – Poetry is better when shared

    • Your curiosity – Always welcome at PoFest

  • Yes! NYC PoFest is completely free and open to the public—no tickets needed. The only cost is the $2.75 ferry fare to Governors Island.

  • The festival takes place at Nolan Park on Governors Island, a quick ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn.

  • Ferries run from:

    • Battery Maritime Building (Lower Manhattan)

    • Red Hook/Atlantic Basin (Brooklyn, weekends only)

    • Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park (weekends only)

    Visit govisland.com for ferry times and tickets.

  • Saturday & Sunday, July 12–13, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day.

  • Yes, you can check in at any point between 11 AM and 6 PM.

  • Poetry belongs to everyone—and so does NYC PoFest! We provide:

    • Wheelchair accessibility (ramps, seating, restrooms)

    • Designated service animal areas

    • ASL interpreters for headliner events

    • Sensory-friendly spaces

    • Accessible ferry options

    If you need specific accommodations, please email tova@poetrysocietyny.org.

  • Yes! Join the Ring of Daisies Open Mic on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Times: Saturday & Sunday from 12:00–2:30 PM and 4:30–6:00 PM.

  • Not at all! PoFest has something for everyone—music, art, food, performances, and plenty of community magic.

  • Yes! Our food vendors serve a delicious array of bites and drinks throughout the weekend.

  • Absolutely. Browse over 100 independent vendors offering books, zines, jewelry, art, and other poetic goods.

  • Yes—well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.

  • VIP Admission is $50 and includes access for both days of the festival. You’ll get entry to Clubtopia, our exclusive VIP space. Any drink tickets you purchase are good all weekend long.

  • The festival is made possible by community support and donations. To contribute, visit poetrysocietyny.org.