Public Schedule

 Day 1 | Thursday | December 10 2026 | Ali & The Hive

Kompa Dance Workshop | 5:45 – 7:00 PM | Ali Courtyard

Ease into the festival with movement, music, and culture. This beginner-friendly Kompa workshop introduces participants to the rich traditions of Haiti's signature dance while encouraging connection, confidence, and community. Whether you're stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or brushing up on your moves, this energetic session is designed to bring people together through music and movement 

Competition Prelims | 7:30 – 9:45 PM | Ali Arts Center & The Hive

The competition officially begins as 40 of the world's best poets take the stage for the preliminary rounds of the Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival. Across two venues, artists deliver powerful original work as they compete for a coveted spot in the next round. Expect unforgettable performances, fierce competition, and the electric energy that has made Exit 36 one of the country's premier slam poetry festivals. 

Poetry'Oke Open Mic | 10:00 – 11:00 PM | Ali Courtyard

A fan-favorite returns! Poetry'Oke invites poets to perform over a live instrumental. Choose the perfect beat or leave it to the DJ for a surprise musical twist. Whether it's hip-hop, soul, Afrobeat, jazz, or R&B, each performance becomes a unique collaboration between poet and music. With no scores or competition, Poetry'Oke is all about creativity, spontaneity, and celebrating the joy of performance. 

 Day 2 | Friday | December 11, 2026| Ali & The Hive

Salsa on the Beach | 11:00am - 12:00am | Pavillon #3

Start your day with rhythm, movement, and ocean views at Salsa on the Beach. Led by a professional dance instructor, this interactive workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of salsa while celebrating the vibrant music and culture that help shape South Florida. Whether you're stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or looking to refine your technique, this fun and welcoming experience is designed for all skill levels. Bring your dancing shoes, connect with fellow festivalgoers, and enjoy a memorable morning of music, movement, and community by the sea.

Workshops 5:30 – 7:00 PM | Ali & The Hive

Workshop 1 : Description Coming Soon

Presented by nationally recognized artists and educators, this interactive workshop will offer practical tools, creative inspiration, and opportunities to grow your craft. Check back soon for the full description

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Workshop 2: Description Coming Soon

Presented by nationally recognized artists and educators, this interactive workshop will offer practical tools, creative inspiration, and opportunities to grow your craft. Check back soon for the full description. 

Competition Prelims | 7:30 – 9:45 PM | Ali Arts Center & The Hive

The competition continues with the last day of prelims to decide what top 20 poets, make it to semi-finals. Across two venues expect unforgettable performances, fierce competition, and the electric energy that has made Exit 36 one of the country's premier slam poetry festivals. 

Exit 36 After Dark | 10:00 – 11:00 PM | Ali Courtyard

A DJ late-night culture lounge where poetry, music, and nightlife collide. Poets freestyle over live DJ beats while featured artists jump in, creating a fluid mix of Afrobeat, R&B, hip-hop, and spoken word. This is not a competition or open mic it’s a curated space to sip cocktails, connect, and vibe with artists and community in an elevated, electric atmosphere. Come for the sound, stay for the culture.

Day 3 | Saturday | December 12, 2026| PBCC Theater

Workshop | 10:00 – 11:30 AM | Pompano Beach Cultural Center

Semi-Finals |12:00 – 2:00 PM | Pompano Beach Cultural Center

Start your day at the farmer’s market, then stick around for an afternoon of electrifying poetry! Watch as our top 20 poets go head-to-head in a high-energy showdown to earn their spot on the Final Stage.

Finals| 8:00 – 10:00 PM | Pompano Beach Cultural Center

The Top 10 Poets Battle It Out! An unforgettable night of poetry, food trucks, music, a full bar, and nothing but good vibes. Don’t miss this electrifying finale where words, rhythm, and performance collide!