The City of Alexandria’s Office of the Arts and DASH are making a final call for submissions for the 12th annual “DASHing Words in Motion” poetry contest. The competition is open to writers aged 16 and older who live, work, or study in Alexandria.
Participants are encouraged to submit original poems that reflect their unique perspectives and connections to Alexandria. Selected entries will be displayed inside DASH buses and trolleys during April as part of National Poetry Month, offering daily inspiration to riders across the city.
According to organizers, “Selected poems will be displayed inside DASH buses and trolleys throughout April during National Poetry Month, transforming everyday commutes into moments of inspiration for thousands of riders.”
Entries must be submitted by Friday, January 16 at 5 p.m. More information about the contest can be found on the literary programs website.
For those needing disability accommodations, Cheryl Anne Colton can be contacted at CherylAnne.Colton@alexandriava.gov or by phone at 703.746.5565, Virginia Relay 711. Free interpretation and translation services are available; email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960 for assistance.
Alexandria is an independent city located in Northern Virginia along the Potomac River, providing public services and community programs while preserving its cultural heritage (https://www.alexandriava.gov). The city operates with a council-manager government structure and supports equity through its policies (https://www.alexandriava.gov). Alexandria also maintains museums and historic sites that highlight local history (https://www.alexandriava.gov).
The city offers over 175 centralized services via Alex311 (https://www.alexandriava.gov) and partners with residents for research and preservation efforts related to its historical assets (https://www.alexandriava.gov).


