Haiku Writing Month

National Haiku Writing Month, also known as NaHaiWriMo, is a delightful celebration of the art of haiku. It’s a time when people are encouraged to write at least one haiku every day for a month.

This event brings together haiku enthusiasts from around the world, creating a vibrant community that shares and appreciates this unique form of poetry. The goal is to inspire creativity and spread the joy of haiku writing.

Haiku is a traditional Japanese poetry form known for its simplicity and depth. Writing a haiku each day encourages participants to observe the world more closely and express their thoughts concisely.

This daily practice helps both beginners and experienced poets improve their skills and enjoy the creative process.

Another important aspect of NaHaiWriMo is its focus on community. Participants share their haikus on social media, often following daily prompts provided by organizers.

This interaction not only inspires but also helps writers connect with others who share their passion. By fostering a supportive environment, National Haiku Writing Month makes the art of haiku accessible and enjoyable for everyone.​

History of National Haiku Writing Month

National Haiku Writing Month, known as NaHaiWriMo, started in 2010.

Michael Dylan Welch, a poet and technical writer, founded this event to promote haiku writing and give poets a fun, challenging way to engage with this form of poetry during the month of February.

Welch chose February because it is the shortest month, fitting for the short form of haiku. NaHaiWriMo encourages participants to write one haiku each day throughout the month.

This daily practice helps writers improve their skills and experience the joy of crafting these concise, meaningful poems​.

The event quickly gained popularity. It now includes daily writing prompts provided by different guest prompters each month.

This tradition started on the NaHaiWriMo Facebook page and has continued every year since its inception. The community that has grown around NaHaiWriMo is supportive and enthusiastic, making it a beloved event for haiku poets around the world​.

How to Celebrate National Haiku Writing Month

Write a Haiku a Day

Kick off the month by penning a haiku daily. This simple yet rewarding activity fuels creativity and enhances your skills.

Carry a small notebook, jot down inspirations, and transform them into three-line gems. With each haiku, you’ll see the world in a new light.

Host a Haiku Party

Invite friends over for a haiku-themed party. Share your creations, read classics, and enjoy some sushi. Add a haiku contest to the mix, with quirky prizes for the winners.

This gathering can spark great conversations and deepen your appreciation for this art form.

Create Haiku Art

Combine visual art with your haikus. Write poems on painted canvases, decorate them with drawings, or create digital art.

This blend of words and visuals adds another layer to your haiku experience. Display your masterpieces at home or share them on social media.

Join Online Communities

Connect with fellow haiku enthusiasts online. Participate in forums, join NaHaiWriMo’s Facebook page, and share your poems.

These communities provide daily prompts, feedback, and encouragement. It’s a great way to stay motivated and meet like-minded people.

Teach Someone to Write Haikus

Spread the love for haikus by teaching someone else. Show a friend or family member how to craft these short poems.

It’s a fun and bonding activity. Plus, seeing someone else discover the joy of haiku is incredibly rewarding​.