Reedsy has announced the release of its updated 2026 Ultimate List of Poetry Writing Contests, a comprehensive guide designed to assist poets in navigating the global landscape of literary awards. The latest edition of the list spotlights recent achievements, prominently featuring Alley J. MacDonald, who secured the Jeroboam Prize.
This newly refreshed guide from Reedsy serves as a vital resource for both emerging and established poets. It meticulously compiles essential information for over 50 global competitions, providing aspiring writers with crucial details such as entry fees, submission deadlines, and specific prize information. The aim is to offer a centralized, up-to-date directory that simplifies the process of finding suitable platforms for showcasing poetic talent.
A significant highlight within the 2026 update is the recognition of Alley J. MacDonald for winning the Jeroboam Prize. MacDonald's accomplishment, dated June 2026, includes a substantial monetary award of $1,000, a distinguished bronze medallion, and the valuable opportunity for publication in The Lascaux Review. This combination of financial reward, symbolic recognition, and professional publication underscores the significance of the Jeroboam Prize within the poetry community.
The comprehensive nature of Reedsy's list extends to featuring a diverse range of competitions from around the world. Among the numerous opportunities detailed in the guide are notable contests such as the Willow Run Poetry Book Award and the Ashdown Forest & Royal Literary Fund. These examples illustrate the breadth of options available, catering to various poetic styles and career stages, all while maintaining a global reach for participants.
By updating its Ultimate List, Reedsy continues to provide a valuable service to the literary world, empowering poets to identify and engage with competitions that can elevate their work and careers. The inclusion of recent winners, like Alley J. MacDonald, not only celebrates individual success but also offers inspiration and clear examples of achievement within the competitive poetry landscape.