Headfest Annual Gardening Competition

Generously sponsored by McGaugh's Gardening Complex

Get ready to celebrate the beauty, creativity, and biodiversity growing right on your doorstep with the Headfest Garden Competition! Whether you’re nurturing a single show-stopping bloom, transforming a small balcony, or cultivating a thriving vegetable patch, there’s a category for everyone to get involved and show off their hard work. 

Each category is scored out of 20 points. Best Bloom & Creative Space are photo submission only* whilst the Best Garden Overall, Wildlife Haven and From Plot to Plate Categories will be shortlisted** and judged in person - so make sure your garden is ready to impress!

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, the Headfest Garden Competition is your chance to get involved, connect with your community, and celebrate the magic of growing. 

Enter now and let your garden space shine! Text/call Mike on 087-4124468 with any questions! 

Best Bloom - €100 McGaugh’s Garden Centre Voucher

Have a plant that steals the spotlight? From radiant roses to lush hydrangeas, this category celebrates standout specimens judged on visual impact, health, care, and seasonal excellence. 

 

Best Creative space -  €100 McGaugh’s Garden Centre Voucher

No garden? No problem! Window boxes, patios, balconies, and doorsteps can all shine here. We will be looking for clever use of space, creativity, and vibrant, healthy planting. 

 

Wildlife Haven €100 McGaugh’s Garden Centre Voucher

Support nature and showcase your eco-friendly space. Pollinator-friendly plants, natural habitats, and sustainable practices take centre stage in gardens or spaces that strike the perfect balance between wild and managed. 

 

From Plot to Plate -  €100 McGaugh’s Garden Centre Voucher

Celebrate the joy of growing your own! From herbs and fruit to full vegetable beds, this category rewards healthy crops, variety, productivity, and thoughtful, sustainable growing methods. 

 

Best Garden Overall €150 McGaugh’s Garden Centre Voucher

Big or Small, formal or quirky, this category recognises gardens with a strong sense of style and atmosphere. It’s all about cohesion, plating quality, maintenance, and that unforgettable first impression. 

Terms & Conditions: 

  • Entry Deadline: All Entries to be made by 22nd of May, 2026. 
  • Entry Fee: €10 per entry - you can enter as many categories as you would like. 
  • Eligibility within 20 Km of Headford: (i.e) Claran, Ower, Killursa, Cloughanover, Annaghdown, Courrandulla, Caherlistrane, Shrule, Kilmaine, Glencorrib, Cross, Cong, The Neale 

Category Judging: 

    • *Best Bloom and Best Creative space 
      • Photo submission only. A member of the Headfest Committee will arrange a visit within 5 days of entry to verify and view your submission. 2 x photos required.
  • **Best Garden Overall, Wildlife Haven & From Plot to Plate
    • Shortlisted entries will be judged in person, with visits taking place the week of 25th of May, 2026.