O Milwaukee! My Milwaukee!
Whether you’re looking to become the next Wisconsin Poet Laureate or simply put some ideas on paper, finding a community of fellow writers can inspire and refine your work.
Milwaukee and the surrounding area offers a rich selection of recurring open mics and writing groups where you can craft the next classic ode or notes app gem. Share your work and experience local voices at these selections.
1. Tabi Po!
Monthly Every Third Sunday From 3-4:30 P.M. | County Clare Irish Pub
“Tabi Po!” resides in the idea that the unseen can be seen and understood respectfully through community and culture. The series invites amateur and established poets to the mic from Milwaukee and beyond. It is a series deeply aligned with Filipino roots, and the monthly gathering of artists honors folklore by creating an offering to spirits and ancestors through poetry. Their website lists three core values to bring to readings that connect to this Filipino identity: “Kapwa,” the shared inner self; “Pakiramdam,” an attunement with others and “Kagandahang-loob,” acts of empathy and generosity. Attendees are invited to immerse themselves and listen deeply to the stories told, as well as tell their own (1234 N Astor St).
2. Midwest Shores’ Poetry Night
Monthly Every Second Wednesday at 6 P.M. | Midwest Shores
Whether it’s the spoken word or healing energy, this shop offers multiple ways to tap into the inner self. Midwest Shores is a crystal store that turns into an open poetry venue once a month. The stakes are low, but the energy is high. All forms of writing are encouraged, from anything as informal as diary entries to full stanzas of poetry. As a setting with many amateurs, it’s a welcoming environment for first-time readers and established poets alike, as it’s all about sharing with the community. Those who are not participating are encouraged to simply come and listen to local voices. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite mug and tea bags to the event where hot water is provided (207 E. Wisconsin Ave.).
3. Rochambo Writing Club
Weekly Every Monday From 7-8:30 P.M. | Rochambo Coffee & Tea House
This community-based club includes all the key elements of crafting and sharing your next written piece. There’s a general prompt, small group share and open free write. Rochambo Coffee & Tea House offers a sanctuary for local creatives, with graffiti-type messages written all over the colorful walls, an extensive open-invite bookshelf, supportive baristas and a group of dedicated fellow writers. The event just celebrated its first birthday, drawing regulars and new attendees for each session. On the second floor, a line of long tables calls amateur and seasoned writers alike to take a seat. Grab a specialty latte, little treat or even a boozy beverage, and don’t forget your favorite notebook (1317 E. Brady St.).
4. Linneman’s Poets Monday
Weekly Every Monday 7:30-10 P.M. | Linneman’s Riverwest Inn
This is Milwaukee’s longest-running open mic for poets. This weekly event is open to all and features an established poet reading from their body of work. Sign-ups open at 7 P.M. for interested readers, allowing community voices to share from 7:30-8:30 P.M., when the featured reader takes the stage. With a historic tavern atmosphere and stage that has hosted various national live music acts, the space is intimate and oozing with vintage charm (1001 E. Locust St.).
5. Poetry in the Park
Every Second Tuesday from June-Sept. at 6 P.M. | Juneau Park
2026 marks the 12th year of Poetry in the Park, which pairs the beautiful outdoor scenery of Juneau Park with readings from local and visiting poets. The event is hosted by Juneau Park Friends and Woodland Pattern, an artist-run nonprofit book center and gallery – they’re ones to look out for in the poetry scene, as they host workshops, poetry performances, a summer camp and more. Bring blankets, snacks, chairs, open minds and ears to fully enjoy this event (900 N. Prospect Ave.).
6. Just Write It!
Weekly Every Sunday From Noon-3 P.M. | Anodyne Coffee Roasting Co.
Every week, this group proves that writing does not have to be a solo venture. It’s a place to find a community where writers of all backgrounds can converge to pour their hearts out, work on a short story, craft a poem or simply journal about the week. It’s an intimate community space for feedback and inspiration from fellow writers and it’ll feel just write, pun intended (224 W. Bruce St.).
7. Writer’s Night
Monthly Every First Thursday From 6:30-8 P.M. | Franklin Public Library
Once a month, the Franklin Public Library turns into a writer’s haven. It’s open to all published and accomplished writers, as well as those on their way there. It’s an open space to get constructive criticism of poems and other writings. If you need any more inspiration, simply look at the surrounding library shelves (9151 W. Loomis Rd.).
