Belfast City Council has officially launched the 2026 Belfast in Bloom competition, inviting residents, schools, and businesses to showcase their gardening achievements. This year's event introduces a new 'Best Alleyway' category, designed to highlight the transformation of urban spaces into vibrant, green communal areas that contribute to healthier neighbourhoods.

The annual competition recognises the environmental efforts of local communities across several divisions. Individual and community awards are available, alongside categories for allotments and school gardens. The commercial sector is also encouraged to participate, with specific prizes for the best hotels, public houses, restaurants, and commercial premises.

The launch took place at Haypark and Rushfield Avenue in South Belfast, areas noted for their strong community gardening spirit. The initiative aligns with the Council's broader environmental strategy and its participation in the Bloomberg Philanthropies Challenge to create more resilient and sustainable urban environments. Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly said: "Belfast in Bloom has always been about celebrating pride of place and the positive impact that simple greening our city can have – and this year's new Best Alleyway category really brings that to life!

"From the brilliant community spirit shown by residents on Haypark Avenue and Rushfield Avenue, to the fantastic work happening in schools, businesses and gardens across the city, these projects show how local action can support wider change and we need more of this in our city.

"As a council, we're committed to tackling climate challenges and creating more resilient, greener neighbourhoods – which is why initiatives like Belfast in Bloom sit alongside our wider climate ambitions, including our participation in the Bloomberg Philanthropies Challenge. I am really looking forward to seeing the range of entries into this free competition – and with the recent weather we are enjoying, now is the perfect time to get planting!"

The competition is free to enter, with all nominations hosted on the Belfast City Council website. Deadlines for entry vary by category: the school awards close on Friday 19 June, while the deadline for all other categories is Friday 31 July. Judging is scheduled to take place throughout August.