The Arts Office, Waterford City & County Council is pleased to announce that entries are now being accepted for the Waterford Poetry Prize 2026. This competition is open to all writers currently living on the island of Ireland. This prize has emerged from the influence of the late Waterford writer Seán Dunne whose poetry continues to inspire.

The winners of the Waterford Poetry Prize 2026 will be announced at the closing event of the Waterford Writers Weekend on Sunday 25th October 2026. This year the Arts Office is pleased to welcome back the poet, essayist and librettist, Jessica Traynor as adjudicator.

There is no age limit and no entry fee for the Waterford Poetry Prize 2026. The first prize is €600. Second prize is €400 and third prize is €300. The closing date for receipt of entries is Friday 14^th August 2026 at 10am.

Online entries only will be accepted on the Waterford Submit link https://submit.link/4VE  or via this QR code.