Ireland's
Rose of Tralee International Festival is one of the country's
most famous and longest running festivals. In 2008, the
festival celebrates its 49th anniversary, which is held
in Tralee, County Kerry. This international event is open
to young women of Irish descent from Ireland and across
the globe. It is centered around the selection of the coveted
Rose of Tralee, which is based on the famous Irish song
of the same name.
Each
year more than 30 representatives arrive in Tralee, after
winning their regional competitions. The festival includes
the Rose selection, a carnival, a fashion show and live
concerts.
Visitors at the festivities are welcomed by each of the
individual Roses. The streets of the town are transformed
by the gaiety
of the events, including parades, music, a circus, a fun
fair, markets and live performances.
Each
of the Roses takes time to partake in local attractions
in Tralee and meet their supporters in the town center.
They also participate in the three parades scheduled
on Saturday
night, Sunday afternoon and Tuesday night of the festival.
On Tuesday night the Midnight Madness parade is led by
the newly crowned Rose of Tralee, followed by a magnificent
fireworks
display.
The
much anticipated International Gala Rose Ball is the first
event scheduled with over 900 guests. They
will enjoy
a five course meal and entertainment, followed by a
dance with the International Roses and other distinguished
guests. The Newbridge Silverware Fashion Show is extremely
popular.
Many famous designers and salons show their latest
creations,
presented by models from the Celia Holman Lee Agency.
The
pièce de résistance is the Rose of Tralee
selection on the last two days of the festival. Irish television
station RTÉ broadcasts directly from the Festival
Dome, hosted by Ray D'Arcy. Those watching at home,
throughout the country and around the world, see
the Roses for the first
time. Family, friends and supporters pour into the
2,000 seat venue and the atmosphere is filled with
excitement as
they cheer for their favorite Rose.
The
festival also provides family entertainment with Fossetts'
circus, Birds' Fun Fair and marching bands.
Late night
entertainment includes dance bands and the 'Party
With the Roses' disco
where you might have a dance with your favorite
Rose.
The
2008 Rose of Tralee International Festival runs from Friday,
August 22nd to Tuesday, August
26th,
filled with
five days of entertainment, magic and Roses.