The Rose of Tralee international festival is one of Ireland's biggest festivals, celebrating Irish women from around the globe. For one week in August, thousands of people from all over the world come together the southern Irish town of Tralee, County Kerry, to continue the festival tradition which began in 1959. Based on the love song "Rose of Tralee", written by 19th century merchant William Mulchinock who fell in love with his maid, Mary O'Connor, the Rose of Tralee celebrates the intelligence, confidence and cultural pride of Irish women. The Rose of Tralee is far from a beauty pageant; it's a unique event that was inspired by the simplicity and story of the original Rose of Tralee, Mary O'Connor.

The festival is still thriving, and year after year the Rose selection is the most-watched television program on the major Irish television network, RTE. Hosted by Irish television and radio personality, Ray D'Arcy, the televised International Selection takes place over the festival's last two nights. During their time in Ireland, the international Roses set off on a "Rose Tour", where they travel through Dublin, Cork and Kerry region meeting the locals and attending events in their honor. Find out more about the Rose Tour here.

Quick Links: International Rose of Tralee Festival RTE 2006 International Rose of Tralee, Kathryn Feeney (Queensland, AUS)