Meet the 2026 Rose of Castlerea contestants
Roses who will compete for the title of 2026 Rose of Castlerea at the Trinity Arts Centre pictured with reigning rose Saoirse Webb. Pic: Liam Reynolds
The crowning of the 2026 Rose of Castlerea will take place at the Trinity Arts Centre tonight Sunday, August 2nd.
It has been a busy nine days for this year’s 10 competitors, who have been involved in multiple events across the festival.
“The girls have had a full week of fun, they go to as many events as they can and go out and enjoy themselves, dancing and having fun,” said PRO Susan Gaynor.
This year the ten contestants are: Adrianna Kelly, sponsored by Corlann; Amy Byrne sponsored by Manson Electric; Ava Croghan, sponsored by Castlerea Musical Society; Claire Buckley, sponsored by Bliss; Dervla Cryan, sponsored by McGourty’s; Eilidh Muir, sponsored by Castlerea Celtic; Eva McDonagh, sponsored by Josie's Café; India Sharkey, sponsored by the Cosy Bar; Latisha McCrudden, sponsored by Brid Miller solicitor; Rihanna Donlon, sponsored by McSharry's Pharmacy.l
The Castlerea Rose Festival has had a packed programme of family fun activities, musical acts, delicious food, talented artwork from local artists and much more.
Festival Chairperson Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice credited the committee and volunteers for making the Rose Festival the success it is today.
“The team we have there, that’s the number one thing. The team of people and all the work they do as volunteers is huge – that’s what has really made it.
“I’m chairperson, and I couldn’t do it on my own, it’s the heavily committed team that makes the festival,” he stressed.
"A huge thank you to our festival committee, volunteers, stewards, An Garda Siochána, Roscommon Civil Defence, and to all the community groups, clubs and businesses who have organised events and supported the festival," said the chairperson.
"We are also sincerely grateful to all our sponsors, to Roscommon County Council, LEADER and Failte Ireland, for their continued support. We hope everyone supports the local businesses that make this festival possible,” said Cllr Fitzmaurice.
From the opening parade on Saturday to the crowning of the 2026 Rose tonight the festival has been celebration of music, dancing, fun and community spirit.
