Fall into Haiku

Gratitude in 17 Syllables: Appreciating Our Community

The City of Albany is pleased to welcome back  Fall into Haiku  returning by popular demand. Originally held from 2018 to 2022, this program brings poetry into public spaces and highlights the creativity of Albany residents.

This year’s theme, "Gratitude in 17 Syllables: Appreciating Our Community", invites participants to reflect on what makes Albany a special place to live, work, or go to school. A favorite street, a neighbor’s kindness, a local tree, or a community event can all be captured in a haiku that expresses appreciation for Albany.

Contest Details

The contest is open to Albany residents, as well as anyone who works or attends school in Albany. Each participant may submit up to three original haiku on the theme of "Gratitude in 17 Syllables: Appreciating Our Community". Entries will be accepted from September 15 through October 15, 2025.

Approximately 60 haiku will be selected and displayed across the City from November 2025 through January 2026. Poems will appear on signs placed in parks, along commercial streets, and in residential yards, bringing poetry into everyday spaces for the public to enjoy. 

Submit your poem

Spread the Word

Help us share this creative opportunity. Post your haiku on social media, tag @albanycalifornia, and use #FallintoHaikuGratitude2025

FAQ

1. What is the theme of this year's contest

The 2025 theme is Gratitude in 17 Syllables: Appreciating Our Community. Participants are invited to reflect on and celebrate the spirit of Albany through the lens of gratitude. What makes Albany special, whether it is a busy street, a neighbor’s kindness, a favorite tree, or a community event, can be captured in a haiku.

2. Who can participate?

The contest is open to all Albany residents, as well as anyone who works or attends school in Albany.

3. How many haiku can I submit?

Each participant may submit up to three haiku. Please submit one haiku per form.

4. What format should my haiku follow?

Haiku should follow the traditional 5–7–5 syllable structure.

5. How will entries be selected?

A panel of Albany Arts Committee members and Albany High School teachers will review submissions. Approximately 60 haiku will be selected. 

6. What criteria will be used?

Judges will evaluate haiku based on:

  • Creativity and originality
  • Expression of gratitude
  • Connection to the Albany theme
  • Adherence to haiku structure

7. When will the haiku be displayed?

Selected haiku will be displayed on signs throughout Albany beginning in mid-November 2025. A map of locations will be available online once signs are placed.

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