Entente Florale Europe, now in its 51st year, is a long-running competition for towns and villages across Europe that promotes the importance of green spaces and environmental quality in enhancing everyday life within communities.
Current member countries include Ireland, Czechia, France, Germany and Hungary, with Spain expected to nominate participants in 2027. Since Ireland first joined the competition in 1981, a total of 84 Irish towns and villages have taken part. County Louth’s first entry was Ardee in 1985, followed by Carlingford in 1994. Tallanstown achieved a Gold Award in 2008, while Dundalk and Drogheda received Silver awards in 2009 and 2011.
Participants are nominated each year by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht from SuperValu TidyTowns entries. For the 2026 competition, Blackrock and Riverstown in County Sligo were selected by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD.
Preparations for Blackrock’s participation will be overseen by an Entente Florale steering committee at county level. The committee includes Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Chief Executive David Conway, and members of the council’s senior management team. Blackrock Tidy Towns is also represented on the coordinating committee, which will work closely with council officials on operational planning.
An international jury is due to visit Ireland in July, when Blackrock will be assessed across a broad range of criteria including environmental sustainability, biodiversity, community involvement, landscaping, tourism amenities, and overall presentation.
The nomination provides the seaside village with an opportunity to showcase its community spirit, environmental initiatives, and the work of local volunteers on an international stage.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Blackrock’s selection for Entente Florale Europe is a tremendous honour for the village and for County Louth. This nomination is a direct reflection of the pride, passion, and commitment shown by Blackrock Tidy Towns and the entire community over many years. Their work has transformed Blackrock into one of the finest coastal villages in the country, and this opportunity is richly deserved. I know the people of Blackrock will rise to the occasion and present the very best of what makes this village – and the county – so special.”
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Blackrock and for County Louth to showcase what we can do on an international stage. Entente Florale Europe celebrates exactly what Ireland is known for – strong community spirit, civic pride, sustainability, and a deep connection to place. We look forward to working closely with Blackrock Tidy Towns, local residents, schools, and businesses to ensure that the village shines during the judging visit in July.”
John Horan of Blackrock Tidy Towns said: “The nomination to enter the Entente Florale competition is a great honour, and an acknowledgement of the fantastic community that we are fortunate to live in, and the level of voluntary effort across a range of activities over a long period of time. Blackrock Tidy Towns will work with the DRCDG and Louth County Council to acquit ourselves well for our community, our county and our country. Planning is well advanced for a number of projects which will present our village at its best for the adjudication in July. We look forward to working with all parties to achieve the highest possible award.”
For more information on Entente Florale Europe, visit www.entente-florale.eu
