Mid and East Antrim In Bloom 2026 competitions now open

Residents across the Borough are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves, plant for pollinators and help make local communities greener as the Mid and East Antrim In Bloom 2026 Community Competitions officially open for entries.

With 12 free-to-enter categories and prizes available for both winners and runners-up, the annual initiative is once again inviting households, community groups and gardening enthusiasts to showcase the very best of local horticulture while supporting biodiversity across Mid and East Antrim.

Focus on biodiversity and greener communities

This year’s campaign places a strong focus on biodiversity, encouraging residents to create wildlife-friendly spaces — no matter how large or small.

From planting pollinator-friendly flowers and shrubs to allowing sections of grass to grow naturally, the initiative aims to support insects, birds and local ecosystems while brightening towns and villages across the Borough.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Jackson Minford, said the competitions have played an important role in helping the Borough achieve horticultural success in recent years.

He said:

“We have won numerous horticultural awards in the Borough thanks in part to our Mid and East Antrim In Bloom competitions. They encourage everyone living in the Borough to consider their local environment and how flowers, plants, trees and gardens can enhance it for wildlife and people.”

The Mayor also encouraged residents who may not have their own garden, or who lack confidence in their gardening skills, to still get involved by nominating others in their community.

He added:

“If you don’t have your own garden or are not confident in your gardening skills, please consider nominating a friend or neighbour. These community competitions are a great opportunity for us to recognise residents.”

Health, wellbeing and community pride

Beyond the environmental benefits, the Council says gardening can also play an important role in improving both physical and mental wellbeing.

The growing popularity of gardening and outdoor spaces in recent years has highlighted the value many people place on connecting with nature, with more residents rediscovering the positive effects plants and green spaces can have on everyday life.

The competitions are designed not only to improve the appearance of local areas, but also to encourage community pride, sustainability and healthier lifestyles.

How to enter

Residents living within Mid and East Antrim Borough Council area can enter free of charge.

Competition categories, application forms and further details are available on the Council website:

• midandeastantrim.gov.uk/InBloom

The initiative forms part of wider efforts to make Mid and East Antrim a greener, more colourful and environmentally sustainable place for residents, visitors and wildlife alike.