Seminar Overview — “Poetry”

The Key West Literary Seminar is an annual four-day celebration that explores a different literary theme each year. This year’s theme is “Poetry” (January 7–10, 2027) with distinguished authors including Billy Collins, Kevin Young, Kimiko Hahn, Hanif Abdurraqib, Gabrielle Calvocoressi, and many more. For the up-to-date roster and thematic overview, click here. For an overview of event details as you consider planning your visit, read on below.

The Seminar will begin on the evening of January 7, 2027, with the John Hersey Memorial Address, followed by a gala reception. Programming begins again on Friday morning, then continues all day Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Onstage presentations include solo readings and lectures, one-on-one interviews, and larger conversations among three or more of our distinguished writers. In general, most authors will make two appearances on stage, and there are question-and-answer sessions, book signings, and other informal opportunities to meet with these celebrated authors and your fellow Seminar participants throughout the long weekend. The cost for the four-day event is $825/person.

Campus & Activities

The Seminar is held at the historic San Carlos Institute, a former Cuban Consulate located in the heart of Key West’s business district on world-famous Duval Street. All onstage programs during the course of the four-day program take place in the 365-seat theater of the San Carlos. Social events and receptions are at other historic venues, including the Audubon House & Tropical Garden and the Oldest House. The $825 registration fee includes access to all onstage events, the opening night reception, and a farewell luncheon.

In the days leading up to the Seminar, during our Writers’ Workshop Program, we offer a schedule of additional literary programs, films, and gallery exhibitions. Many are free to the public and produced in partnership with peer organizations such as Books & Books @ the Studios of Key West, Tropic Cinema, and the Key West Art & Historical Society. We also offer the Old Town Literary Walking Tour and tours of the Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden, our year-round headquarters.

Where to Stay

Finding winter accommodations in sunny Key West can be a challenge, but we do our best to help by securing special rates at recommended hotels—available exclusively for attendees of the Seminar and Workshop Program.

Patrons Circle Opportunities

Members of our Patrons Circle generously underwrite the costs of the annual Seminar through tax-deductible contributions, while supporting scholarships for teachers, librarians, and emerging writers.

As an expression of our gratitude, additional opportunities are available during the Seminar to those who support our mission above and beyond the cost of registration. Donors at the $1,000 level and above are eligible to register early for the Seminar and will receive two tickets to our Patrons Dinner, typically held Saturday evening during the Seminar. Those contributing $2,500 and above will receive preferred seating at the Patrons Dinner, where you will have the opportunity to share a table and compare notes with our distinguished authors. Contributors at the $10,000+ level are invited to private VIP events with our presenters, including an intimate dinner on the eve of the Seminar and late-morning luxury catamaran sail on opening day.

Key West Literary Seminar is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and contributions are tax-deductible.