WELCOME HOME, POETS!

At L/OST POETRY FESTIVAL, we believe that literature can create connections where politics often reaches its limits. We bring together emerging voices from East Germany, Eastern Europe and Ukraineto share stories of identity, transformation, memory, resistance and hope.

For three days, the former industrial grounds of the ALTE SEGELTUCHFABRIKin Cottbus become a DOMA for spoken word, literature, music and artistic exchange. Rooted in the Lausitz– a region shaped by structural change, cultural diversity and multiple identities – the festival creates space for encounters between local communities and artists from across Europe.

On stage, established and emerging voices meet. Across workshops, performances, concerts, exhibitions and conversations, different languages, perspectives and lived experiences come together. Here, literature leaves the page and becomes something to experience together.

The L/OST POETRY FESTIVAL celebrates the stories that are too often overlooked – stories from border regions, post-socialist societies, minority communities and young people shaping the future of Europe. It is a festival for those who believe that culture can strengthen democracy, build solidarity and create new ways of seeing one another.

Whether you come to discover new artists, experience spoken word for the first time
or simply spend a summer evening surrounded by inspiring people, we look forward to welcoming you.

Because every story deserves to be heard.
And every voice deserves a home.