Castlegar to Welcome 2025 Communities in Bloom Judges
Castlegar is once again preparing to welcome Communities in Bloom judges as part of the national competition taking place July 21–23, 2025. This year, Castlegar is competing in the prestigious Circle of Champions category, with one other Canadian community—Bay Roberts, Newfoundland and Labrador—in the running.
The 2025 judges, Ms. Seville Kwan from Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo, Alberta, and Mrs. Angela Vieth from Waterloo, Ontario, bring a wealth of experience in community engagement, civic pride, and beautification. Both serve as National and Atlantic Judges with the Communities in Bloom program.
This marks Castlegar’s return to competition after two years of evaluation-only participation. The judges’ visit will include tours and assessments based on a comprehensive judging grid of 78 elements in categories such as environmental action, community appearance, urban forestry, heritage conservation, and floral displays. More than 60% of the judging criteria are focused on sustainability, climate change, and environmental stewardship.
“We’re proud to be once again competing at the national level in the Circle of Champions category,” says Mayor Maria McFaddin. “Our dedicated Communities in Bloom volunteers continue to put in incredible work year-round, and their efforts help shape a more beautiful and connected community for all.”
The 2025 theme is Edible Gardens, which will be part of the judges’ considerations. In addition to highlighting local gardens, the judges will provide detailed feedback and recommendations that can support future planning and budgeting for community improvements. To help celebrate this year’s theme, a new mural titled Edible Gardening is being painted by local muralist Tyler Toews on the Sherbiko Hill retaining wall. The mural will serve as a vibrant visual welcome to visitors while reflecting Castlegar’s commitment to sustainable, food-focused beautification.
Adopt-a-Road Volunteers Needed
As part of preparations, the City is encouraging Adopt-a-Road groups and residents to participate in clean-up efforts before the judges’ arrival. Keeping Castlegar’s roadsides clean contributes significantly to the evaluation and demonstrates residents’ pride in their city.
Volunteers can contact the City’s Civic Works Department at 250-365-5979 or civicworks@castlegar.ca to request clean-up kits and register their participation. We also welcome photos of volunteers in action during clean-ups, which may be included in the judging materials and shared with the community.
About Communities in Bloom
Communities in Bloom is a national charitable organization that promotes civic pride, environmental responsibility, and community beautification through people and plants. Over the past 30 years, more than 1,000 communities across Canada have taken part, generating a cumulative estimated economic impact of $28 million.
Learn more about the Castlegar Communities in Bloom team by visiting their Facebook page, or contact local chair Darlene Kalawsky at 250-365-1653 if you’re interested in volunteering.
Civic Works