Dublin’s inclusive rugby club Emerald Warriors is set to dazzle once again as its iconic drag fundraiser, Queen of the Warriors 2026, returns this April, promising a vibrant night of performance, pride and community spirit.
Marking its 10th anniversary, Queen of the Warriors 2026 will take place on Sunday, 19 April at The George. Widely regarded as the club’s biggest social event of the year, the extravaganza will see ten Emerald Warriors members swap rugby boots for sequins, wigs and some sky-high heels in what is set to be a fierce battle for the crown.
Queen of the Warriors has become a cornerstone of the Emerald Warriors’ calendar, drawing packed crowds and raising essential funds to sustain the club’s activities. Proceeds from ticket sales directly support pitch hire, training facilities and travel expenses for both domestic and international competitions. Funds also contribute toward the club’s long-term ambition of securing a permanent home ground.
View this post on Instagram
Audiences can expect a high-energy showcase of lip-sync performances, theatrical flair and unapologetic glamour. The competition blends individual acts with group numbers, creating a dynamic and entertaining spectacle. Attendees will also play a key role in deciding the winner, as audience votes are combined with scores from a judging panel featuring resident performers from The George.
Adding to the excitement, reigning champion Emi Gration will return for a special teaser performance on Sunday, 12 April, offering fans a preview of the talent and spectacle to come.
Tickets are priced at €25 and include a complimentary drink on arrival. The night will also feature a raffle with a range of prizes, while celebrations will continue after the crowning with the venue’s popular Shirley’s Bingo, ensuring the party atmosphere carries on late into the evening.
With a decade of success behind it, this year’s Queen of the Warriors 2026 promises to be the boldest yet, a joyful celebration of sport, self-expression and community spirit that defines the Emerald Warriors. You can grab your ticket here.
© 2026 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
Support GCN
GCN is a free, vital resource for Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community since 1988.
GCN is a trading name of National LGBT Federation CLG, a registered charity - Charity Number: 20034580.
GCN relies on the generous support of the community and allies to sustain the crucial work that we do. Producing GCN is costly, and, in an industry which has been hugely impacted by rising costs, we need your support to help sustain and grow this vital resource.
Supporting GCN for as little as €1.99 per month will help us continue our work as Ireland’s free, independent LGBTQ+ media.