Poetry Takes Center Stage in Paducah During Two-Day Literary Celebration, Oct. 24–25

Published on Oct 1, 2025

A weekend of verse, voices and community connection is coming to downtown Paducah as the James Baker Hall Foundation and West Kentucky Community and Technical College present Poetry Weekend, Oct. 24–25, featuring acclaimed Kentucky poet Wesley Houp and local student writers.

Held at the Paducah School of Art and Design, the two-day event is part of the foundation’s Kentucky Writers on the Road series, which brings award-winning authors to communities across the state. The weekend will include public readings, a free writing workshop and a celebration of Kentucky’s rich literary heritage.

Houp, winner of the 2024 James Baker Hall Book Award, will read from his latest poetry collection, Strung Out Along the Endless Branch, during a Friday evening program that also features readings by WKCTC students and faculty.

A community reception will be held Friday, Oct. 24, from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., followed by readings from 7 to 8:15 p.m. at 905 Harrison St. On Saturday, Oct. 25, Houp will lead a free, two-hour poetry workshop from 10 a.m. to noon, also at the Paducah School of Art and Design.

“This weekend is about more than poetry—it’s about building community through storytelling and expression,”said Malissa Kano-White, community arts coordinator at WKCTC. “We’re thrilled to partner with the James Baker Hall Foundation to give our students and the Paducah community the chance to engage directly with a celebrated Kentucky writer and to share their own voices.”

The James Baker Hall Foundation, established in 2023, honors the legacy of the late poet, author and University of Kentucky professor who mentored generations of Kentucky writers. Through programs like Kentucky Writers on the Road, the foundation provides funding and platforms for both emerging and established voices across the Commonwealth.

For workshop registration or more information please the Eventbrite link here WKCTC Arts and Ideas Events.

About the James Baker Hall Foundation
The mission of the James Baker Hall Foundation is to celebrate Kentucky’s artistic heritage by providing direct support to the state’s literary and visual creatives. To learn more, visit www.jamesbakerhallfoundation.org.

About West Kentucky Community and Technical College
West Kentucky Community and Technical College champions student success, provides excellence in teaching and learning, and advances regional economic development. As a member of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, WKCTC is committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment for all learners.