Riverstown Selected to Represent Ireland at Prestigious Entente Florale Europe 2026
Riverstown, County Sligo, has been chosen to represent Ireland in the prestigious Entente Florale Europe 2026 competition, following its nomination by the Department of Rural and Community Development. It is the first time a Sligo village or town has been nominated for this honour.
This nomination recognises the outstanding collaboration between Riverstown Tidy Towns and Sligo County Council, whose shared commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and community wellbeing continues to enhance the village as a vibrant and inclusive place to live and visit.
Entente Florale Europe, established in 1975, is an international competition that celebrates excellence in horticulture, environmental management, and community engagement. Ireland has proudly participated since 1985. In 2026, six European countries will compete, showcasing best practice in sustainable local development. Blackrock, Co.Louth has also been chosen to represent Ireland in this renowned competition.
While often compared to the SuperValu TidyTowns competition, Entente Florale places a strong emphasis on partnership, highlighting the essential role of collaboration between local authorities and communities in delivering lasting improvements.
The Riverstown entry demonstrates a wide range of achievements, including:
- Enhancement of public spaces and planting initiatives
- Promotion of biodiversity and climate action
- Protection of built, cultural, and natural heritage
- Strong community engagement and volunteerism
Adjudication will take place on 9 July 2026, when an international panel of judges will visit Riverstown to assess the village across key themes including landscape quality, environmental sustainability, and community involvement.
Preparations are well advanced, with local volunteers, Council staff and mentors working in close partnership to ensure Riverstown is presented at its very best.
Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr. Dónal Gilroy welcomed the announcement, stating:
“Riverstown’s selection to represent Ireland in Entente Florale Europe 2026 is a tremendous achievement and a source of immense pride for County Sligo. It reflects the dedication, vision and community spirit of the Riverstown Tidy Towns group, working in close partnership with Sligo County Council. This competition provides an important opportunity to showcase the very best of rural Ireland and of Sligo on a European stage, particularly our commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and quality of life. I wish everyone involved every success as they prepare to welcome the judges in July.”
Speaking of the nomination, Martin Lydon, Chief Executive of Sligo County Council said “This recognition is a testament to the dedication, vision and pride of Riverstown Tidy Towns committee and the wider community. Across all our towns, villages and rural communities, we are seeing a shared commitment to enhancing our environment, protecting our biodiversity and creating welcoming, sustainable places to live, work and visit. Sligo County Council is proud to support and work in partnership with local communities, volunteers and stakeholders in achieving these standards of excellence on a European stage.”
Hugh Kelly from Riverstown Tidy Town Committee added; ““Riverstown is deeply proud to represent Ireland in Entente Florale Europe 2026. Our village’s strength has always come from its people – volunteers, neighbours and partners who work together to protect our natural beauty and create a welcoming, vibrant place to live and visit. We look forward to showcasing Riverstown to the judges in July.”
Sligo County Council and Riverstown Tidy Towns have acknowledged the invaluable contribution of all partners, volunteers and supporters involved in the project and look forward to welcoming the international adjudicators to Riverstown this summer.
For more information on Entente Florale Europe, visit www.entente-florale.eu
