GRASS VALLEY, Calif.— California State Parks and the Sierra Gold Parks Foundation invite the public to celebrate poetry and community at Poetry in Parks, taking place April 25, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Empire Mine State Historic Park in Grass Valley.
Set against the historic backdrop of one of the oldest and deepest gold mines in California, this free event will be held on the estate lawn. In the event of rain, the event will be moved inside the historic Clubhouse.
The program will be hosted by Nevada County Poet Laureate Emerita Kirsten Casey and will feature a fantastic lineup of regional poets, including current Nevada County Poet Laureate Kat Terry and Poet Laureate Emerita Molly Fisk, along with Judy Crowe, Judie Rae, Ingrid Keriotis, Julie Valin, and John Merryfield. In addition to established voices, the event will spotlight emerging talent from Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning High School. Students previously had the opportunity to tour the mine and mine yard, and will be sharing about their experience through their poetry during the event.
“Poetry in Parks brings people together to experience the power of words in a natural setting,” said California State Parks Archaeologist, Scott Green, who kickstarted the annual event in 2018. “It’s a chance to connect with local voices, celebrate creativity, and enjoy one of Nevada County’s treasured state parks.”
Standard park entrance fees apply; there is no additional fee for the event. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating. Empire Mine State Historic Park is located at 10791 E. Empire Street in Grass Valley. For more information, please contact event organizers.
What: Annual Poetry in Parks event
When: Saturday, April 25, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. RAIN OR SHINE
Where: Empire Mine State Historic Park, 10791 East Empire Street, Grass Valley CA.
Directions: From Hwy 80/Auburn, drive 23 miles north on Highway 49 to Empire Street exit in Grass Valley. Turn right on East Empire Street and travel 1.25 miles to the Empire Mine SHP Visitor Center parking lot.
Cost: Event is free with paid park admission: $5 per person; age 5 and under are free.