The much hyped annual Rose of Tralee festival reached it’s finale last night with a winner being crowned.

A 26-year-old secondary school teacher representing Luxembourg has been named the 2012 Rose.

Nicola McEvoy claimed the title of the 54th Rose of Tralee in front of a packed Dome in Tralee.

The “one who couldn’t stop kissing me” according to host Daithi O Se  is originally from near Blarney in Co. Cork.

Other highlights from part two of the show included a science lesson from the Dublin Rose, gymnastic performance from the Boston rose, Daithi O Se wearing high heels and memorable Dolphin intimidation from Kilkenny rose of the previous night.

The night also included a performance from Irish band The Coronas when the penultimate decision was being made.

The Rose of Tralee winner won over audiences and judges with her rendition of Edith Piaf’s “La Vie en Rose”.

Ms. McEvoy was crowned by previous 2011 Rose winner Tara Talbot who spoke fondly of her past year as Rose of Tralee.

Nicola McEvoy spoke about her surprise to Breakfast here on Newstalk.