Communities in Bloom (CiB) is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community involvement and an annual national program that challenges communities to enhance green spaces.
The Communities in Bloom competition consists of municipalities being evaluated on the accomplishments of their whole community (municipal, corporate and individual citizens) any of the following criteria:
- Community Appearance
- Environmental Action
- Heritage Conservation
- Tree Management
- Landscape
- Plant and Floral Display
At the 2026 Communities in Bloom National Symposium & Awards, the City was recognized with a "Circle of Excellence" award (non-evaluated category). View the 2026 CiB National Edition awards results.
City of Barrie Greenhouse
The City opened its new greenhouse at the Operations Centre on June 12, 2025, which features 14,000 square feet of growing space and four climate controlled zones.
The plants grown by Horticultural staff in the City’s greenhouse are used throughout Barrie for beautification and to enhance our profile in the annual Communities in Bloom competition.
Did you know? The City saves approximately $350,000 dollars each year by growing our own plants rather than purchasing plants grown in private commercial greenhouses.
