America in Bloom: four Oakland County towns take national honors
OAKLAND COUNTY. Royal Oak, Orion Township, Ortonville and Holly each won national recognition at America in Bloom's 2026 awards, handed out Sept. 24 to 26 near Washington, D.C. The nonprofit marked its 25th year judging towns on vitality, flowers, trees, the environment, heritage and community involvement.
Royal Oak took the Coolest Downtown award. "This recognition is a reflection of the collective efforts of the businesses, residents, community partners, City of Royal Oak and DDA teams who contribute to the continued success and character of Downtown Royal Oak," said Isaac D. Kremer, the city's Downtown Development Authority director. Orion Township earned three honors, including Best Pocket Park for Heritage Park and a Community Vitality Outstanding Achievement Award.
Ortonville won a Bloom Equity award, a new 2026 category, after a two day evaluation visit in July. Holly's Celebrating Heritage award cited the recent move of the Holly Union Depot.
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