Newsletter
Join the Community
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and updates
Belfast in Bloom 2026 has officially launched, inviting North Belfast residents to join the city-wide competition. This year introduces an exciting new 'Best Alleyway' category, celebrating local efforts to green overlooked spaces. It's a fantastic chance for individuals, community groups, businesses, and schools to show off their green-fingered creativity!
2026/04/28
Get ready to show off your green thumbs, North Belfast! The annual Belfast in Bloom competition is officially underway for 2026, and this year brings an exciting new way to brighten up our streets: the 'Best Alleyway' category!
This fantastic new addition shines a light on those often-overlooked spaces between our homes and businesses, encouraging us all to transform them into vibrant, green havens. Imagine our alleyways blooming with colour, bringing life and beauty to every corner of North Belfast and beyond, creating greener, healthier neighbourhoods for everyone.
Belfast in Bloom celebrates the incredible efforts of local residents, community groups, and businesses who dedicate their time and passion to making our city greener and more beautiful. Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly, launching the competition, emphasised the importance of community spirit and how simple greening efforts can have a huge positive impact. She highlighted that these local actions support wider environmental goals and contribute to creating more resilient, greener neighbourhoods – something we can all champion right here in North Belfast.
There are plenty of ways to get involved, with categories for everyone! Individuals can enter for 'Best Individual Allotment' or contribute to 'Best Allotment Site'. Community groups can showcase their collective projects. Businesses too have their own awards, including 'Best Hotel', 'Best Public House', 'Best Restaurant', 'Best Commercial Street', and 'Best Commercial Premises'.
North Belfast schools are especially encouraged to participate in the 'Best Kept School Garden' category – let's see our local schools shine!
It's completely free to enter, and joining is easy. Simply make your nominations online at /belfastinbloom.
Mark these dates in your diary:
School awards category: Closes Friday 19 June
All other categories: Close Friday 31 July
Judging: Will take place throughout August.
Let's make North Belfast sparkle with colour this summer. Pick up your trowels, get planting, and help our community bloom!