Mr Bear Ireland 2025 to compete for prestigious European title

Eamon is in the running for Mr Bear Europe 2026, facing tough competition from seven other candidates.

Portrait of Mr Bear Ireland 2025, Eamon.
Image: Hazel Coonagh

Mr Bear Ireland 2025, Eamon, has officially announced his candidacy for the prestigious European title. This year’s edition of the annual competition will take place in Lisbon from July 15 to 19.

Eamon was crowned Mr Bear Ireland in March 2025 and used his role to champion the vibrant spirit of the community. This next step marks a milestone in his tenure, further extending his year-long commitment to fostering visibility, inclusivity and pride among Irish and international bears.

“I’m honoured to represent Ireland on the European stage,” said Eamon. “This journey is about celebrating community, confidence, and the values that make our bear family so resilient and strong. I look forward to bringing the energy, warmth, and heart of the Irish community to the international competition.”

Since 2017, Mr Bear Europe has served as a premier platform uniting national titleholders from across the continent to showcase leadership, community, engagement and advocacy. So far, there have been eight candidates announced for 2026, including those from Germany, Portugal, Iceland, France, Belgium, Italy, Poland, and, of course, Ireland.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Alex Fortes (@kerbearos)

The champion will be determined through a rigorous process involving delegation assessments, online voting and live audience participation. Public votes account for 25% of the final score, and you can support Eamon by having your say through the official portal here. Voting is open until July 5.

Although a new Mr Bear Ireland was crowned in March 2026, Dublin Bears continues to officially sponsor and support Eamon throughout his European campaign. A cornerstone of Ireland’s LGBTQ+ social landscape, the organisation will serve as the primary hub for updates, local events and instructions on how the community can cast their votes in the upcoming competition.

Stay connected with Dublin Bears and up to date with Eamon’s journey to Europe on Facebook, Instagram, X or the official website.

 

@gcnmagCome with us to this year’s Bear Féile for a rugged night of wild fun 🐻♬ original sound – GCN

Did you know that this Pride month, you can support GCN by donating €1 when you shop online with PayPal? Simply select GCN at the checkout or add us as your favourite charity* at this link to support Ireland’s free LGBTQ+ media.

*GCN is a trading name of National LGBT Federation CLG, a registered charity – Charity Number: 20034580.

© 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.