WATCH: Highlights from the Tipperary Rose 2026 selection night in Clonmel
Fiona Kennedy takes Tipperary Rose 2026 title at Talbot Hotel final in Clonmel
This weekend in Clonmel, the Talbot Hotel played host to the 2026 Tipperary Rose Selection, bringing together some of the county’s most talented young women for a closely contested and highly anticipated final.
On Sunday, May 31st, 23 entrants from towns and villages across Tipperary gathered for their chance to be named Tipperary Rose 2026.
Each contestant hoped to secure the honour of representing the Premier County at the International Rose of Tralee Festival, which will take place from Friday, August 14th to Tuesday, August 18th.
After a night filled with anticipation, performance, and personality, it was Clonmel woman Fiona Kennedy who was crowned Tipperary Rose 2026. Ms Kennedy, a Home Economics and Religion teacher based in Fethard, impressed judges and audience members with her warmth, confidence, and strong stage presence.
Her selection held particular personal significance. Sponsored on the night by Arthritis Ireland, Ms Kennedy spoke openly about her lifelong connection with the condition after being diagnosed with arthritis as a child.
Her personal story was woven into her stage presence, adding emotional depth to her performance and resonating strongly with those in attendance.
Ms Kennedy also showcased her creativity on stage in a light-hearted baking demonstration, joining MC Ollie Turner to ice buns during a segment that delighted the audience.
Outside of teaching and the competition, she runs her own business, Kennedy Kakes, where she creates custom-made baked goods, highlighting her entrepreneurial spirit alongside her artistic talent.
The event featured a wide range of performances from across the county, including Irish dancing, singing, music, and a variety of stage presentations that highlighted the diverse abilities of the contestants.
One of the standout moments of the night came from Clonmel contestant Deirdre O’Brien, a tattoo artist and piercer, who carried out a live ear piercing during her stage presentation. This demonstration drew significant attention and added to the variety of performances on the night.
The event was hosted by Ollie Turner, who delivered a polished and engaging performance as MC. His humour, energy, and strong stage presence helped maintain momentum throughout the evening, keeping both contestants and audience engaged from start to finish.
The judges were tasked with making what was described as an extremely difficult decision due to the exceptionally high standard of entrants.
As Tipperary Rose 2026, Fiona Kennedy will now go on to represent County Tipperary at the International Rose of Tralee Festival later this summer, joining Roses from across Ireland and around the world.