2025 Frances Browne Poetry Competition Open
The Frances Browne Poetry Competition is a celebration of the unique heritage of East Donegal, welcoming poets writing in the English, Irish and Ulster Scots languages. Now open for entries, we are excited to hear from voices both familiar and new, and from across the globe.
So whether you are new to poetry or have a drawer full of poems going back years, take inspiration from Frances and have the courage to let your words see the light.
Here’s the headlines:
Deadline for entries: midnight on Wednesday 20th August 2025
Categories: English, Irish and Ulster Scots languages. For each of these categories there is the opportunity for local poets from East Donegal to enter an additional competition (at no additonal fee).
Cost of entry: Cost of entry is per poem. €5 / £5 / $5 Payments can be made online via our website, where you find details of other payment methods.
Number of poems: Poets may enter as many poems as they wish.
Winners announced: At our awards ceremony on Friday 10 October 2025
Prizes
- English Language - First Prize - €250, Second Prize - €100, Third Prize, €50
- Irish Language - First Prize - €250, Second Prize - €100, Third Prize, €50
- Ulster Scots Language - First Prize - €250, Second Prize - €100, Third Prize, €50
- The Eilish McBride Award - English Language - Local* - Sponsored by Edel MacBride - Winning Poem €100
- Irish Language - Local* - Winning Poem €100
- Ulster Scots Language - Local* - Winning Poem €100
If you have any questions not answered on the website please contact us on info@francesbrowneliteraryfestival.com and we’ll be happy to help.
Le meas / Kind regards
The Frances Browne Literary Festival Committee
