Environmental Awareness: Schools
Recycled Christmas Decoration Competition
Coming Soon: Recycled Christmas Decoration Competition 2026!
Too Early to Mention Christmas?
We don't think so...
The Recycled Christmas Decoration Competition is returning once again, giving schools across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown the chance to showcase their creativity, sustainability and festive spirit.
By creating decorations from recycled and upcycled materials, participants are helping to support Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, while learning about waste prevention, resource efficiency and the importance of giving materials a second life.
While we're putting the finishing touches to this year's competition details, why not take a look at last year's fantastic entries and start gathering inspiration for your next recycled masterpiece?
2025 Winners' Gallery & Decoration Instruction Booklet:
Copy of Tidy Districts Booklet V2
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council would like to thank all the pupils, teachers and schools who took part in the 2025 competition. The judges were blown away by the creativity on display, with entrants transforming everyday household items into imaginative and sustainable Christmas decorations.
Congratulations once again to Cara Kilroy from 2nd Class in Rathfarnham Educate Together NS, whose decoration, Robin on a Perch, was awarded the Overall Winner's Trophy. Crafted from an old pillow and fabric scraps, the decoration demonstrated just how much can be achieved with creativity, skill and a commitment to reuse.
With so many fantastic entries received, we are delighted to share the 2025 Winners' Gallery and Decoration Instructions Booklet. We hope it inspires schools, families and communities to create their own recycled Christmas decorations and discover the possibilities hidden in everyday materials.
We look forward to welcoming schools back for another festive crafting adventure in 2026.
If you have any questions, please email envaware@dlrcoco.ie.
FAQ
Who can enter the competition?
The competition is open to all primary schools within Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.
How many entries can a school submit?
Only one entry per school can be submitted. Schools may wish to hold an internal competition to select their winning entry. The pupil associated with the selected decoration may then be nominated as the school's School Champion to represent the school and attend the Awards Ceremony.
What materials can we use?
Decorations should be made primarily from reused, recycled or upcycled materials.
Does the decoration need to fit on a Christmas tree?
Yes, decorations must be suitable for display on a Christmas tree and be securely able to hang from a branch.
What do we need to submit?
A completed application form, a list of materials used, a brief description of the decoration and step-by-step instructions explaining how it was made.
What if our entry arrives after the deadline?
Entries received after the deadline may not be considered for judging.
Who do I contact with questions?
Please email envaware@dlrcoco.ie.