In-Person Judging Returns to Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards

After a two-year hiatus, the Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards (CEGA) is back again, free and in person. CEGA judges will visit city backyards, patios, school lots and more, looking for gardens that best exemplify our citizens’ efforts to make Chicago neighborhoods more beautiful and sustainable. Contestants may enter their garden through the website application form from May 1 to July 1. Judges have set a goal of reaching every Chicago ward, neighborhood and green corner of the city this year.

The 2022 awards ceremony will take place in September at a venue to be announced. The contest is open to residents of the city of Chicago. Only one entry per garden will be accepted. There is no entry fee. Award-winning entries receive certificates and permanent, all-weather signs that can be displayed year-round in the gardens. CEGA welcomes Chicago gardens of all shapes and sizes, including residential, community, school, church, business and urban farms to enter.