Applications open for young Mayo women looking to become next Connacht Mary

The search is officially underway for the 2026 Connacht Mary, as excitement begins to build once again ahead of the much-loved Mary From Dungloe Festival.

Young women from across the western province are being encouraged to put themselves forward for the opportunity of a lifetime to represent Connacht at one of Ireland’s most cherished cultural celebrations. Each year, the festival in Dungloe draws thousands of visitors home and abroad, celebrating Irish heritage, community spirit and the global Irish diaspora.

A Year to Remember for 2025 Connacht Mary

The 2025 Connacht Mary, Caragh Ryan, described her year as “an unforgettable journey filled with friendship, pride and opportunity.” Over the past twelve months, Caragh travelled extensively throughout Connacht and beyond, attending community festivals, charity fundraisers and cultural events. From representing the province at race days to supporting Irish community gatherings, she embraced every engagement with enthusiasm and warmth.

Her role brought her to towns and villages across Connacht, where she met former Mary’s, community leaders and families who have long supported the festival tradition. The Kilmeena native also used her platform to highlight causes close to her heart, championing volunteerism and celebrating the strength of local communities. “It was about connection,” she reflected during a recent interview. “Every event was a chance to meet people, hear their stories and share what makes our communities so special.”

A Magical Week in Dungloe

Caragh’s journey reached its pinnacle last summer when she joined fellow provincial, county and international representatives in Dungloe for festival week. The streets were alive with music, colour and anticipation as visitors packed the town for the annual Celebration. 

Throughout the week, she took part in parades, live interviews, gala events and community visits. From the glittering selection night to the informal gatherings that forged lifelong friendships, she described the experience as both exhilarating and deeply meaningful. “The atmosphere in Dungloe is like nowhere else,” she said. “There’s such pride, such warmth, it truly feels like one big family. It really was the experience of a lifetime. My Grandad asked me to consider entering and I am so glad I did!”

While the overall Mary From Dungloe was ultimately crowned after a week of festivities, Caragh said the bonds formed among the Marys were the real highlight. Many of the young women, representing counties across Ireland and Irish communities overseas, remain close friends.

Looking Ahead to 2026 

Now, attention turns to finding the next young woman to carry the Connacht banner in 2026. Organisers are seeking someone who embodies community spirit, confidence and a genuine pride in their roots.

The role is not about pageantry, they stress, but about personality, participation and representing one’s community with authenticity. As Caragh’s year demonstrated, the experience offers opportunities for travel, networking and personal growth - alongside the chance to stand on the stage in Dungloe live on TG4 and become part of a cherished tradition.

Applications for the 2026 Connacht Mary are open and interest is already beginning to grow. The selection night will take place in Gracie’s Bar, Sligo, on Friday 6th March. If If you're interested, please contact Deirdre on 087-621-8328.

For one young woman in Connacht, the journey to Dungloe and perhaps even to the festival crown - is about to begin! To have a look at what Caragh got up to during her year as the Connacht Mary, visit the link below: www.instagram.com/connachtmary2025