The annual Chesterville Poetry Night is set for 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20, at the Chesterville Center Union Meeting House, 3 Borough Road.

The event has drawn a faithful audience over many years, but always welcomes new participants. The gathering features an open mic for those who wish to read or perform on a first-come, first-served basis, according to a news release from the Cynthia Stancioff, an event organizer.

Chesterville Poetry Night participation is broadly defined. Beyond the obvious occasion for living Chesterville-dwelling poets to share their work, non-residents also are invited to read poems about Chesterville or written by living or deceased Chesterville poets; also included might be works of parents, grandparents, siblings, children or other relatives of Chesterville residents past and present, works of Chesterville lovers who live elsewhere, part-time residents, would-be residents; a current resident who does not write poetry but just wants to read a favorite poem.

In short, anything or anyone related to Chesterville in any way, as well as music about Chesterville, are all encouraged.

Youth poets are especially welcomed. Volunteers will read the poems of authors who do not wish to read out loud and do not have someone to read for them.

Audience members who simply want to observe are welcome. The event is free and open to the public. The Meeting House is anon-profit organized to preserve the 1851 building for future generations; donations towards the building’s maintenance and upkeep are accepted at the door.

Refreshments will be available, and the building and its attached privy are accessible to those with mobility impairments.

For more information, call 207-778-3513.

Check out other upcoming area events!