Welcome to the
Philadelphia Rose of
Tralee
"Camaraderie, not
competition"

The Philadelphia Rose of Tralee centre
opened in 2002*, giving young Irish American
women from the Philadelphia region the
chance to participate in the one of Ireland's
most beloved traditions.

The Philadelphia Rose of Tralee Selection Ball
is held each June. Other Philadelphia Rose of
Tralee related events are held throughout the
year (check the website for announcements).
One young woman will be selected to
represent Philadelphia at the international Rose
of Tralee.

(learn more about 2008 Philadelphia Rose
Colleen Tully)

The Rose of Tralee international festival is held
each August in County Kerry, Ireland.
Thousands of people from all over the world
descend on the town of Tralee for this
celebration of Irish heritage. The selection is
broadcast on live television, and is one of the
most watched programmes on Ireland's
national network, RTE, each year.  
(Learn more: www.roseoftralee.ie)

Roses are selected from North America,
Europe and Australia to represent their
respective regions. The pageant is not based
on beauty, but on character and celebration of
the Irish spirit which exists all over the world.
The "Rose of Tralee" is based on the love song
of the same name by William Mulchnick.
Mulchnick was a wealthy 19th century
merchant who fell in love with Mary
O'Connor, his maid. Because of their
differences in social class, their love was
discouraged. Mulchnick wrote the beautiful
"Rose of Tralee" ballad about Mary.

"She was lovely and fair as the rose of the
summer
Yet 'twas not her beauty alone that won me
Oh no, 'twas the truth in her eyes ever
dawning
That made me love Mary, the Rose of
Tralee"

The Philadelphia Rose of Tralee welcomes
you! We are committed to building our Irish
community in Philadelphia through this event,
with a culture of friendship and celebration of
our heritage.


Although only one young woman can be
selected as the Philadelphia Rose of Tralee,
our mission is to create an enriching
experience of cultural celebration. We hope
you join us!



The Philadelphia Rose of Tralee is an official
affiliated centre of the International Rose of
Tralee Festival.

*In 1968, the Philadelphia GAA sponsored
a Philadelphia Rose of Tralee contestant.
Philadelphia was not involved in the Rose
of Tralee again until 2002.
RTE host Ray D'Arcy with the  
international Roses in Tralee (Aug 2008)
Colleen Tully is congratulated by her
fellow Rose Candidates (June 2008)
2008 Philadelphia Rose of Tralee
candidates with 2007 Philadelphia Rose
Colleen Gallagher