The Rose of Tralee International Festival is one of Ireland’s oldest and largest festivals located in the heart of the Kingdom of Kerry and features live concerts, street entertainment, circus, markets, a funfair, fireworks and our internationally renowned Rose Parade. From August 18th to 22nd, Tralee will come alive with a vibrant celebration of beauty, culture, and community, as contestants from around the world vie for the coveted title.
The Rose of Tralee International Festival has a rich history that dates back to 1959. What began as a modest celebration of the rose, a symbol of Ireland, has since blossomed into a globally recognized event that attracts participants and spectators from all corners of the world. The festival takes its name from the iconic Irish ballad “The Rose of Tralee,” a love song that beautifully captures the spirit of the event.
The festival is a week-long extravaganza that combines both cultural and entertainment events. The opening ceremony kicks off the festivities, followed by a series of parades, concerts, and outdoor activities that captivate the town and its visitors. One of the highlights is the televised selection of the Rose of Tralee, where each contestant shares her unique story and aspirations, often touching on themes of family, heritage, and personal growth.
The Rose of Tralee International Festival is not just about crowning a winner—it’s about fostering connections and promoting cultural exchange. The event provides a platform for the Roses to connect with one another and share their diverse backgrounds, creating lifelong friendships and fostering a sense of global unity.
As the 2023 Rose of Tralee International Festival approaches, Tralee prepares to welcome a new group of remarkable Roses, each with her own story to share. From the opening ceremony to the crowning moment, this event will once again captivate hearts and minds, celebrating the beauty of diversity and the power of community. If you can’t make it to the event the festival will air live on RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player on Monday 22 August and Tuesday 23 August from 8pm.
