Relaxation is the name of the game for Candace Rose.

Rose, a park ranger at Goose Creek State Park, is mixing the art of poetry with the beauty of the Pamlico River at sunset with her program “Poetry on the Pamlico.”

“People do poetry reading in bars and coffee shops. I think it’s a neat concept. I think it will be well received being outside by the river, and it will be about sunset,” Rose said.

Rose is bringing the program to Goose Creek for the first time — an event of this nature hasn’t been held at the park. Rose said she tried it once before at another park, and she decided to give it a whirl once more in Washington. While she said Friday night programs normally tend to be less busy, Rose is up for the challenge.

“Friday night, doing a program is experimental anyway. Friday night is kind of ‘you may get some people you may not,’” Rose said. “I’m feeling good. It’s a good opportunity if people want to take an advantage of it.”

Those interested are encouraged to arrive at the swim beach of Goose Creek with either original poetry or poetry written by others. Rose said she will provide some poetry, and she’ll also offer the opportunity for others to enjoy the sunset and write during the program as well.

Rose said the different programs at Goose Creek draw more visitors and gives rangers the opportunity to educate and spread awareness about the park and its rules.

“The more people that come out, the more the rules are spread about the park,” Rose said.

There is no signup required for the event, as Rose said people can come and go as they wish. Swimmers are also welcome to join in on the reading.

Rose said this program is designed to just be a peaceful Friday evening on the river.

“I think overall it’s a relaxing experience. If anything it will be just a time to chill out and watch the sunset and have some coffee,” she said.

The program is at Goose Creek State Park swim beach area and begins at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 15.