Genre: Poetry

A prize of $1,000 is given annually for a poetry collection published during the current year. The winner is also invited to read at the Poetry Society of Virginia’s annual Spring Poetry Festival, held at the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia, in April 2026. Self-published books are ineligible. Mattie Quesenberry Smith will judge. Submit three copies of a book no less than 50 pages in length that was published in 2025 with a $36 entry fee ($25 for current PSV members), which includes a one-year membership to the organization, by January 15, 2026. Visit the website for the required entry form and complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,000, publication by Longleaf Press, and 25 author copies is given annually for a poetry collection. The winner is also invited to give a virtual reading in early 2026. Roger Weingarten will judge. Using only the online submission system, submit a manuscript of at least 50 pages with a $27 entry fee by January 15, 2026. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,000, publication by Burnside Review Press, and 10 author copies is given annually for a poetry collection. Rick Barot will judge. Using only the online submission system, submit a manuscript of 50 to 100 pages with a $25 entry fee, which includes one title from the press’s catalogue, by December 31. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,008.15 and publication in Quarter After Eight is given annually for a prose poem, a short short story, a micro essay, or other work of short prose. Steven Dunn will judge. Using only the online submission system, submit up to three pieces of no more than 500 words, each with a $15 entry fee, by November 30. All entries are considered for publication. Visit the website for complete guidelines.