Calling all creatives, writers and aspiring poets from the Old Pueblo and beyond! The Downtown Tucson Partnership together with the University of Arizona Poetry Center are proud to announce the 6th annual Haiku Hike literary competition. This year’s theme is Belonging.
running from the first day of spring through June 1.
sumbit your haiku
About
The 6th Annual Haiku Hike, presented by the Downtown Tucson Partnership and the University of Arizona Poetry Center, features 20 winning haiku displayed on acrylic signs in planters along Congress Street and Stone Avenue. This seasonal literary trail runs from March 20, 2025 (the first day of spring) to June 1, offering a unique way to explore and rediscover Tucson’s vibrant downtown.
Judging
Haiku entries are judged by Tucson's Poet Laureate, TC Tolbert. From hundreds of submissions, 20 winning poems are selected. Winners receive public recognition, with their work showcased on downtown signage, online, and in the media. Learn how to write a haiku here.
Guidelines
- Eligibility: The competition is free and open to all. Each participant may submit up to three original haiku as part of a single entry.
- Format: Only haiku following the 5-7-5 syllable count format will be considered.
- Submission Deadline: End of day, February 3, 2025.
- Submission Rules:
- Each person may submit one entry containing up to three haiku.
- Submissions are final—review carefully before submitting.
- Past winners from the 2024 competition are not eligible to win in 2025.