The best moments from night one of The Rose of Tralee

Updated / Tuesday, 18 Aug 2026 Derry chicken box, anyone? The Roses were blooming in Tralee on Monday night with a mix of ceol, dancing, and a live tutorial on how to make a Derry chicken box. Here are some of the opening night's highlights from the Dome. Cork Rose Lexi remembers her late mother There was a moving moment with the very first Rose of the night - Lexi Linnane from Cork, who at 19 is the baby of this year's Roses. She paid tribute to her late mother, Tracey, who passed away after a stroke. Lexi is studying Early Years and Childhood Studies while also teaching dance and working in content creation. She is passionate about fundraising for stroke awareness and support and recently raised €4.5,000 for Cork Stroke Support. She changed out of her eye-catching gold dress and performed a Contemporary Dance to Prince’s Purple Rain. Westmeath Rose Caoilfhinn gets wiggy with it Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh took to the stage and spoke about living with alopecia, sharing her journey from losing her hair at 15 to becoming a wig maker. She raised awareness by showing and trying on wigs before revealing her bald head, encouraging body positivity. Dublin Rose delivers a powerful message about racism Suad Mooge, of Somalian descent, faced racist criticism but spoke confidently about her Irish identity. She performed a dance combining Irish and Somalian styles and emphasized not internalizing negative words. The Derry chicken box Derry Rose Cará Hamilton prepared a Derry chicken box with Kathryn, featuring crispy fried chicken, cheese, and taco sauce. She recently completed a degree in Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice and is through to the next stage of An Garda Síochána selection. The musical highlight came from Leitrim Rose Catherine Cullen, who performed unaccompanied singing and tin whistle, showcasing her musical talent.