Communities in Bloom is a non-profit Canadian organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community participation and the challenge of a friendly competition.

National beautification programs have flourished in Europe , including England , France and Ireland , for decades, and were the inspiration for Communities in Bloom. It began in 1995 with 29 Canadian communities and has grown to more than 100 national and hundreds of municipalities registered in the provincial editions.

Communities in Bloom promotes involvement and action by citizens of all ages, the municipal government, local organizations and businesses.

The program strives to improve the tidiness, appearance and visual appeal of Canada 's neighbourhoods, parks, open spaces and streets through the imaginative use of flowers, plants and trees. A focus on environmental awareness and preservation of heritage and culture is also an integral part of its success resulting in an improved quality of life.

New ideas are “springing” forth as the committees work to bring the City of Kingston’s participation in the Communities in Bloom program to the next level. The excitement continues to build as the citizens of Kingston prepare for the 2006 Kingston Blooms Competition being held in July and the National Judging which will take place during mid to late summer.