Carlow County Council is preparing to welcome delegates and representatives from across Europe as host of Entente Florale Europe 2026, taking place on 18 and 19 September 2026.
Carlow's selection as host follows its remarkable success in the prestigious European competition, where Carlow Town was awarded a Gold Medal in 2024, along with the President's Prize in recognition of its innovative Rain Gardens project. These achievements earned international recognition for Carlow's commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, environmental stewardship and community-led development.
Entente Florale Europe is an international initiative that celebrates towns, villages and cities that excel in creating vibrant, sustainable places to live. The competition recognises excellence in areas such as environmental management, climate action, horticulture, biodiversity, community participation and quality of life. It also provides a valuable platform for communities across Europe to share ideas, showcase best practice and build lasting relationships.
As host of the 2026 event, County Carlow will welcome European delegates, judges, elected representatives and community leaders for a programme that highlights the county's achievements, innovation and strong tradition of community involvement.
Community Celebration at Carlow College
One of the highlights of the weekend will be "Embracing Entente Florale Europe", a free family-friendly event taking place at Carlow College on Saturday, 19 September 2026, from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.
The event offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the spirit of Entente Florale Europe and celebrate the people, projects and partnerships that have contributed to Carlow's success on the European stage.
Welcoming the event, Cllr. Thomas Kinsella, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, said:
"It is a great honour for Carlow to host Entente Florale Europe 2026. This event gives us an opportunity to welcome visitors from across Europe and showcase the community pride, creativity and dedication that make Carlow the place it is today. I encourage everyone to take part in the 'Embracing Entente Florale Europe' celebrations as we come together to celebrate our achievements and extend a warm Carlow welcome to our European guests."
Cllr. Ken Murnane, Mayor of the Municipal District of Carlow, added:
"Hosting Entente Florale Europe provides Carlow with a unique opportunity to showcase our county on a European stage. The competition aligns strongly with our commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, placemaking, community development and wellbeing. We look forward to welcoming delegates from across Europe and sharing the many initiatives, partnerships and community successes that contributed to our Gold Medal achievement."
Everyone Welcome
Members of the public are invited to join the celebrations and help extend a warm Carlow welcome to visitors from across Europe.
Event Details
📅 Saturday, 19 September 2026
🕑 2.00pm – 4.00pm
📍 Carlow College, Carlow
🎟️ Free Admission – All Welcome
Carlow County Council looks forward to welcoming European guests and celebrating the community spirit, environmental leadership and partnership working that continue to make County Carlow a recognised leader in sustainable community development.