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Participatory poetry gatherings will take place every Friday night in Tacoma. With the city's variety of venues and devotees, poetry readings are one of the last great entertainment values.

All the ones listed below are free.

Each usually includes a featured performer, as well as an open reading.

First Friday (begins June 4) 8 p.m.: Speak Your Soul, The Den @ urbanXchange, 1932 Pacific Ave., 253.376.4539. Zach Street is typically the featured reader.

Second Friday, 7 p.m.: Distinguished Writer Series, King's Books, 218 St. Helens, 253.272.8801. Tony Barstone will be the featured performer May 14.

Third Friday, 7 p.m.: Mouths & Open Mic at Café Messina, 744 Market St., Tacoma, 253.383.7559.

Fourth Friday, 7 p.m.: Free Ya Mind, Tully's, Ninth and Broadway, Tacoma, 253.627.5646.