2026 DASHing Words in Motion: Call to the Community

Alexandria, VA — The City of Alexandria’s Office of the Arts and DASH are inviting residents, students, and workers in Alexandria to get creative for the 12th annual “DASHing Words in Motion” poetry contest.

This beloved community program celebrates local voices by showcasing original poems inside DASH buses and trolleys during National Poetry Month in April 2026—turning everyday rides into moving moments of art and inspiration.

Writers ages 16 and older are encouraged to submit original poems that reflect their creativity, personal perspective, and connection to Alexandria. Selected poets will have their work featured for thousands of DASH riders to enjoy as part of this rolling gallery of words.

For more than a decade, DASHing Words in Motion has celebrated the power of poetry to connect, inspire, and bring beauty to unexpected places—right where the city moves.

Submission Deadline: Friday, January 16, 2026, by 5 p.m.

For full details and entry guidelines, visit the Office of the Arts website.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact Cheryl Anne Colton at [email protected] or 703.746.5565, Virginia Relay 711.

For free interpretation and translation services, email [email protected] or call 703.746.3960.