Poetry will connect young and old at the 23rd annual Poets’ Picnic, when people from all generations meet in Double Bay to share their love of the written word.

The free community event will take place under the stars in the harbourside Blackburn Gardens at 548 New South Head Road, Double Bay on Tuesday 21 February 2012 from 6pm.

The evening will be hosted by ABC Radio’s Simon Marnie and will be centred on the theme Talking About My Generation.

Residents and visitors are invited to pack a picnic, grab a rug and find a spot on the lawn to enjoy twilight readings from an array of Australia’s best-loved poets – from new and emerging voices to some veteran greats.

Poets who will perform on the evening include Vivian Smith, Carol Jenkins, Tricia Dearborn, Alan Wearne, Kate Middleton, and Kit Brookman.

For the first time, a unique ‘Haiku Hut’ will be open to visitors, providing free private readings in this ancient poetry form.

The Poets’ Picnic begins at 6pm, with live jazz music from 5.30pm. The popular Chalk Poetry Workshop for children also returns from 5pm. Light refreshments will be available for purchase.

For more information contact the Woollahra Library & Information Service on 9391 7100 or library@woollahra.nsw.gov.au.