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Literary Awards Ceremony

Celebrating new and lifetime literary achievements.

A person stands at a podium on stage during the 2021 PEN America Literary Awards. The audience is seated in a dimly lit theater. Blue and orange stage lights illuminate the stage, and a large screen displays the event name.

Since 1963, PEN America has honored exceptional literary work across literary genres. Today, our awards highlight achievement in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, science writing, essays, biography, children’s literature, and drama. They honor everyone from emerging writers to luminaries in their field.

2026 Literary Awards

The 2026 Literary Awards Ceremony will be held on March 31, 2026 at the Town Hall in New York City!

See the finalists >> Get tickets >>

2025 Literary Awards Ceremony

Thank you for joining us for the 61st annual Literary Awards Ceremony!

PEN America was honored to host the 61st annual Literary Awards Ceremony at Town Hall on Thursday, May 8. This year’s ceremony was hosted by two-time Emmy Award-winning television host Tamron Hall.

Watch the recording & see the winners >>

Learn about the Awards See past winners Submission FAQs