Westmeath Rose Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh has been crowned the 2026 Rose of Tralee.
The 25-year-old from Mullingar was chosen from 32 Roses following two nights at the Kerry Sports Academy.
Caoilfhinn balances her retail work with studying to become a wig maker, a path inspired by losing her hair to alopecia at 15 years of age.
She was presented with her sash by the 2025 Rose of Tralee, Katelyn Cummins, shortly before 11.30pm following the live announcement on RTÉ.
A shocked Caoilfhinn was whisked into Tralee town centre, where she was presented to the town of Tralee and serenaded in front of the thousands of people who lined out for Midnight Madness and a spectacular fireworks display.
Speaking after being announced the winner, Caoilfhinn said: “I would not have been able to do any of this without these girls; I’m speechless!”
She will now embark on a year of travel and engagements representing the Festival in Ireland and internationally.
As the 2026 Rose of Tralee, Caoilfhinn's prize package includes:
-World travel prize valued at €25,000
-Kia EV3 for her year
-Complimentary accommodation at the four-star Meadowlands Hotel whenever she returns to Tralee during her year
-Hair styling provided by Kerry College during her year
-A week-long adventure break in Kerry for Caoilfhinn and a guest, hosted by Kerry County Council
Over five days, the International Roses, Rose Escorts and Rose Centres took part in a programme of parades, music, entertainment and community events across Tralee, as part of the Féile Trá Lí street festival which coincided with the Rose of Tralee International Festival.