Push the Boat Out returns to Summerhall from 22-24 November. Look out for our programme announcement on Thursday 3 October.

Poetry is everywhere. It’s the lyrics of the song that’s stuck in your head, the rhythms of speech in an overheard conversation, the way we tell our stories, the histories of the buildings around us. That’s what Push The Boat Out is all about. Words, how we use them, and what they mean to us.

From poetry readings and discussions, to new commissions, singer-songwriter circles, music hybrid events, dance and hip hop, poetic cocktail-making classes, film screenings,  beach walks, panels, workshops and development opportunities – this vibrant, multi-layered, polyphonic line-up is a true fiesta of the vernacular with something for everyone and anyone.

In some ways, there’s never been a more interesting time for poetry. From time immemorial we’ve looked to poetry and story to help us interpret and understand the world around us; right now there is an ever increasing richness of artists doing just that in powerful and diverse ways, resonating with wider and wider audiences in the process. Push the Boat Out is proud to bring together artists both established and new in the game, and to create a platform for new connections, experiences and inspiration. We know there’s an audience out there who want to experience poetry as a live artform, who are moved by words and language in all their glorious forms, and this festival creates the space for you to do just that.

Join us at our monthly Rock the Boat Open Mic, explore our engagement work or get in touch to see how you can play a part in our story.

And our festival will be back at Summerhall from 22-24 November – get in the boat, compañeros! 

On the first Thursday of every month, we gather in Summerhall’s Gallery Bar to indulge in a dreamy evening of poetry and wholesome camaraderie. September’s featured poet is Maya MacGregor – find out more and register now.

Our latest podcast episode was recorded at our 2023 festival. Three hugely talented lyricists – rising indie star Hamish Hawk, Scottish folk legend Karine Polwart and celebrated cross-disciplinary artist Inua Ellams – come together to offer rare insights into the processes behind creating a song.