Started by the Reno City Council in 2014, the City of Reno Poet Laureate is an honored position Awarded to a local poet who has a record of achievements in poetry and ability to advance poetry in the city. The Poet Laureate participates in public gatherings or educational settings and works with City of Reno Arts and Culture to share poetry on Reno life. With the University of Nevada, Reno’s Black Rock Press, each Poet Laureate creates a limited-edition poetry broadside as part of their tenure.
Elisa Garcia - January 2026 - December 2027
Photo: 2026-2027 City of Reno Poet Laureate Elisa Garcia; Courtesy of Elisa Garcia
Elisa Garcia is a Mexican-American writer and spoken word artist whose voice was born in Los Angeles and has been shaping the Reno poetry scene since 2009. A proud member of the Spoken Views Collective, Elisa has guided young poets at Brave New Voices and made history as part of Reno’s first-ever team to compete at the National Poetry Slam. Through her poetry, she delves into family, identity, and the tender journey of self-acceptance - using her words as both resistance and a path to healing. Now based in Reno, she facilitates writing workshops, curates special events, and occasionally taps into her competitive roots on the slam stage.
“I’m deeply honored and excited to serve as the City of Reno’s next Poet Laureate. As a Mexican American woman and the first female in this role since Gailmarie Pahmeier, I feel proud to represent both my culture and my community. Reno has shaped so much of who I am, and I look forward to celebrating its diversity and creativity.“ – Elisa Garcia.
Community Program
Bird is the Word: Poetry Walk with Reno Poet Laureate Elisa Garcia
Friday May 8, 6-7pm
Idlewild Park - Sensory Garden
Free and Open to the Public
Join City of Reno Poet Laureate Elisa Garcia and an Interpretive Park Ranger for an evening at Idlewild Park. Explore the park’s trails while spotting local and migratory birds. Let the sounds and sights of nature inspire shared and personal poetry. Perfect for bird nerds, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, creative outdoor experience.
The poetry walk will begin promptly at 6pm at the Sensory Garden at Idlewild Park along Cowan Drive. This is a free event. Pre-registration is not required.
Please bring a journal, writing utensil, water, a hat, close-toed shoes, and weather-conscious clothes.
PHOTOGRAPHY RELEASE, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT
This form is an important legal document. It is critical that you read and understand it completely.
In consideration of my participation in City of Reno Parks and Recreation activities (“Activity”), I acknowledge and agree as follows:
I am voluntarily participating in Activity at a City of Reno sponsored event.
Release Of All Claims: I, for myself, my heirs and assigns, hereby release, waive and discharge, irrevocably and unconditionally, City of Reno and its directors, members, officers, employees, contractors, representatives, agents, instructors, and successors from any and all claims and causes of action, costs, expenses, and damages (including punitive damages, liabilities and attorney fees) for negligence, personal injury, emotional distress, death, accidents, illnesses, and/or property loss, damage or theft arising from or in any way related to Activity. This Release shall include, without limitation, any and all injuries which may occur as a result of: (1) Use of the City of Reno facility, equipment, and amenities; (2) Instruction, training, or supervision; and (3) Tripping, slipping and/or falling while at the City of Reno facility, including its exterior grounds, adjacent parking lot, sidewalks, etc.
Assumption Of Risk: I acknowledge and agree that participation in activities at a City of Reno facility or any City of Reno sponsored event carries with it certain inherent risks that cannot be eliminated. The specific risks may include (1) minor injuries such as bruises, sprains, and dehydration, (2) more significant injuries such
as eye injuries, joint or back injuries, broken bones, heart attacks, and concussions, and (3) catastrophic injuries such as paralysis and death. I understand and appreciate these, and other risks are inherent. I assert that my participation is voluntary, and I knowingly assume all such risks.
Use of Image Permission: By participating in Activity at City of Reno facilities or City of Reno sponsored events, I consent to the use of any images via photography, film, or videotape of the activity in marketing or promotional materials.
Severability: If any portion of this Release, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnification Agreement shall be deemed by a Court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, then the remainder shall remain in full force and effect, and the offending provision or provisions shall be severed here from.
Acknowledgment of Understanding: I have read this Release, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnification Agreement, fully understand its terms, and understand that I am giving up substantial rights, including my right to sue. I acknowledge that I am signing freely and voluntarily and intend this agreement by my signature to be a complete and unconditional release of all liability to the greatest extent allowed by law."