Carlow prepares to host prestigious European floral competition
County Carlow will welcome international delegates and community leaders this September for the prestigious Entente Florale Europe 2026 celebrations. The upcoming showcase highlights the region's remarkable commitment to sustainability, horticulture, and collaborative community-led development.
Source:
Carlow County Council
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⏱️ 2 min read
Carlow County Council is finalising preparations to welcome international delegates, judges, and community leaders as the proud host of Entente Florale Europe 2026, which will take place across the county on 18 and 19 September 2026. This prestigious hosting role follows Carlow Town's exceptional triumph in the 2024 competition, where it secured a coveted Gold Medal alongside the President's Prize for its innovative Rain Gardens project. These accolades cemented the county's reputation as a shining example of environmental stewardship, biodiversity, and vibrant placemaking.
The international initiative celebrates towns and cities that excel in cultivating sustainable, high-quality living environments while fostering cross-border cooperation and the sharing of best practice. As the county takes centre stage, the celebrations will shine a spotlight on local innovation and deeply rooted community spirit. Cllr Thomas Kinsella, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, emphasised that the gathering offers a wonderful platform to display local creativity, while Cllr Ken Murnane, Mayor of the Municipal District of Carlow, noted that the event aligns perfectly with the region's dedication to wellbeing and sustainable growth.
A major highlight of the weekend will be the free family-friendly community celebration titled "Embracing Entente Florale Europe", hosted at Carlow College on Saturday, 19 September 2026, from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. Members of the public are warmly invited to attend the admission-free gathering to join local residents in extending a traditional Céad Míle Fáilte to European visitors, celebrating the partnerships and grassroots dedication that continue to drive Carlow's international success.
The international initiative celebrates towns and cities that excel in cultivating sustainable, high-quality living environments while fostering cross-border cooperation and the sharing of best practice. As the county takes centre stage, the celebrations will shine a spotlight on local innovation and deeply rooted community spirit. Cllr Thomas Kinsella, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, emphasised that the gathering offers a wonderful platform to display local creativity, while Cllr Ken Murnane, Mayor of the Municipal District of Carlow, noted that the event aligns perfectly with the region's dedication to wellbeing and sustainable growth.
A major highlight of the weekend will be the free family-friendly community celebration titled "Embracing Entente Florale Europe", hosted at Carlow College on Saturday, 19 September 2026, from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. Members of the public are warmly invited to attend the admission-free gathering to join local residents in extending a traditional Céad Míle Fáilte to European visitors, celebrating the partnerships and grassroots dedication that continue to drive Carlow's international success.