The McKinley Park Civic Association invites all neighborhood gardeners to compete in the 1st annual McKinley Park Neighborhood Gardening Contest, accepting entries through August 1, 2026.

Celebrate our neighborhood and the beautiful gardens that make it thrive. Submit your application and showcase your garden, with the contest open to all residents in the McKinley Park area.

Judging takes place August 2-8, 2026, with winners announced on August 8.

Contest categories include:

• Single-family residential
• Multi-family residential
• Container gardening
• Vegetable gardens

One winner from each category will receive a $100 Home Depot gift card and recognition certificate at 6 p.m. on September 2, 2026, at the McKinley Park Civic Association Meeting .

Get applications and send in photos by sending email to mckinleyparkcivicassociation68@gmail.com or picking up an application at the front desk of the McKinley Park branch of the Chicago Public Library , 1915 W. 35th St., or at the 12th Ward office, 3868 S. Archer Ave., Chicago.

McKinley Park Civic Association President Christopher Bania shared the following message with the gardening contest invitation:

Dear Residents of McKinley Park:

McKinley Park has always been a neighborhood that takes pride in its homes, streets and community spirit. One of the most visible examples of that pride is the care and dedication residents put into their gardens and green spaces.

Urban neighborhood gardening is more than just a hobby -- it strengthens our community, beautifies our streets, supports pollinators, improves air quality and creates opportunities for neighbors to connect.

The McKinley Park Civic Association is proud to present its 1st Annual Garden Contest, recognizing residents whose gardening efforts contribute to the beauty and character of our neighborhood.

I encourage all residents to participate and share the joy of gardening with family, friends and neighbors. 

Thank you for helping make our community bloom.