Free Verse: A Juneteenth Open Mic

every.Word Poetry Presents: FREE VERSE – A Juneteenth Open Mic

Date: Thursday, June 19th
Time: 7:30-10:30 PM (Check-In at 7:00 PM | Show 7:30 PM | DJ Set 9:30 PM)
Location: The Eloise Stage at The VORTEX (2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX)
Admission: Sliding Scale Pay $10-25| Donations welcome.

Celebrate Black freedom, artistry, and expression with us at FREE VERSE, a special Juneteenth edition of our every.Word Poetry Open Mic. Hosted by the incomparable Jay Writes and featuring poet, theater-maker, and 2025 Austin Poet Laureate Finalist Jasmine Games, this evening invites you to reflect, rejoice, and raise your voice.

Whether you're a seasoned poet, emerging writer, or someone who just wants to listen, come through for an unforgettable night of spoken word, music, and community.

How to Participate:

• Poet and Musician Sign Up Walk-Up Only at The Box Office, prioritizing poets.

About Our Sliding Scale Pricing

At every.Word Poetry, we believe art should be accessible to everyone. Our sliding scale ticket system allows you to choose the level that works best for you. Each tier helps sustain our events, workshops, and community programs. Whether you’re planting seeds or preserving legacies, your contribution makes a difference and supports our mission to amplify every voice. Choose the ticket that reflects your means and support for the arts—every dollar helps keep our words alive.

Consent Notice:
By performing, you consent to the use of your photo, video, or audio on every.Word Poetry, The VORTEX, and The Butterfly Bar platforms for promotional and grant-related purposes.
To have your full performance posted, fill out this consent form: https://links.everywordpoetry.com/

Support The Poet House:
The Poet House is home to every.Word Poetry and Courageous Cadence, providing a dedicated space for poets, storytellers, and artists to create, connect, and be heard. As a sponsored project of the Austin Creative Alliance, The Poet House is committed to fostering spoken word and literary arts in our community. Your contribution is tax-deductible and helps us build and sustain this vital space. Donate today and be part of the movement: https://fnd.us/buildthepoethouse?ref=sh_5DxIj9

Thank you for supporting the future of spoken word and storytelling!

Follow us:
@everywordpoetry | @3220poetlane | @courageouscadence | @vortex_rep

About every.Word Poetry:
A program of The Poet House, every.Word Poetry uplifts spoken word artists through workshops, open mics, and performances. Directed by poets Jasmine Games and Michael Hatcher, we provide space for voices to rise and be heard.

About The VORTEX:
We conjure urgent, unashamed art in Austin, Texas, breaking down barriers and building community at our Butterfly Bar and Sanctuary.

Come ready to speak your truth. This is more than an open mic—this is a celebration of freedom and creative resistance.

Info: The Butterfly Bar is open from 5PM-12:00AM. Patiriz's is open from 5:00-9:30PM. Light eats and snacks also available in the bar.

Info: Sign Up in the Box Office. Sign-ups open until list closes.

Info: Enjoy the show!

Also check out other Arts events in Austin, Literary Art events in Austin.