Summer Slam

Description

Summer Slam is back! 

Join Spoken Word SA for the 2026 Summer Slam, a national poetry performance competition where poets go head-to-head with brand-new work.

Each contestant has a maximum of two minutes to perform an original poem that has not appeared in any previous Summer Slam heat. From two preliminary heats, the five top-scoring poets from each round will battle it out in the Summer Slam Final on the stage at the State Library of South Australia. 

In addition to the title of 2026 Summer Slam Champion, there will be awesome prizes to compete for. 

Guest performer for the night will be 2025 South Australian and Australian Poetry Slam Champion, Arantza Garcia.

Arantza Garcia Ferrand is an emerging Peruvian writer and member of the Latin American community in Adelaide, South Australia. Arantza uses her story-teller voice to bring life into the dead, quiet moments that surround us, as she explores her ever-evolving cultural identity, and the silent poetry of our everyday lives. Arantza is the 2025 Australian Poetry Slam Champion, having competed in the national finals at the Sydney Opera House, and has performed at several festivals, galleries, and charity events. She will tour her poetry internationally during 2026.

Tickets $15 at the door or via Trybooking.

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include  study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.