The official launch of Tidy Towns 2026 took place at the Riverfront Amenity Park in Carrick-on-Shannon, the Leitrim town that claimed the title of Ireland’s Tidiest Town2025 along with the accolade of Ireland’s Tidiest Small Town.
The inaugural Tidy Towns competition in 1958 had 52 entrants while the 2025 competition received a record 929 entries, marking the highest number in the competition’s history
Community groups, volunteers and local representatives gathered to mark the start of the 68th year of the competition which continues to celebrate environmental improvement biodiversity enhancement and community spirit across towns and villages throughout Ireland.
The launch highlighted the strong community effort that secured victory for Carrick on Shannon last year and encouraged other areas to register their participation for the upcoming judging period.
Minister Calleary praised the ongoing dedication of volunteers who work to make their localities cleaner greener and more attractive for residents and visitors alike. SuperValu managing director Luke Hanlon joined the proceedings and reaffirmed the retailer’s long standing support for the initiative that drives positive change at local level.
Communities now have the opportunity to enter the two thousand and twenty six competition with entries welcomed from towns villages and urban neighbourhoods of all sizes. The programme places emphasis on sustainable practices wildlife protection and inclusive projects that benefit everyone in the area. With the competition now open participants can begin preparations for what promises to be another vibrant year of local pride and environmental action.
Dara Calleary shared I am delighted to be here in Carrick on Shannon Ireland’s Tidiest Town for two thousand and twenty five as we launch the two thousand and twenty six SuperValu TidyTowns competition. Luke Hanlon shared The SuperValu TidyTowns competition continues to inspire communities across Ireland to create cleaner greener and more vibrant places to live and visit.
Tourism and Hospitality Awards
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
