The Rose of Tralee Welcomes ‘Rose Buddies’ in Historic First for 2025 Festival!

The Rose of Tralee International Festival has officially launched its search for this year’s Rose Buds – and in a major first for the beloved Irish celebration, boys are now being welcomed into the fold as Rose Buddies.

The announcement was made at a joyful launch event in Tralee this week, where Festival organisers were joined by past Roses, local families, and an excited group of future Buds and Buddies to unveil the new initiative. Traditionally open only to girls aged 6 to 10, the Rose Buds programme has become one of the most heartwarming aspects of the Festival, offering young children a chance to take part in the magic and make memories that last a lifetime.

Kerry Rose Emer Dineen, 2024 Rose Escort Tom Dowling, 2024 Sligo Rose Bud Holly Brosnan and Rose Buddy Iarla Farrell launched the search at Fairtree Village – the new Official Sponsor to the 2025 Rose Buds and Rose Buddies.

Now, for the first time, boys in the same age group are invited to share in the experience – meeting the Roses, taking part in Festival events, and representing the next generation of Irish pride and spirit.

“This is something we’ve been talking about for quite a while,” said Suzan O’Gara, Festival Director of the Rose of Tralee. “We’ve had so many families tell us their sons would love to take part – and this year, we’re making that happen. The Rose Buds programme has always been about community, inclusion, and joy. Welcoming boys as Rose Buddies is a natural and exciting step forward. And who knows, we might just find the ”

Fairtree Village Facility Manager Dan Roche said: “We’re thrilled to announce that Fairtree Village is the official sponsor of the 2025 Rose Buds & Rose Buddies – the most popular festival of the year!” 

“The search was officially launched right here at Fairtree Village by none other than Kerry Rose Emer Dineen, Rose Escort Tom Dowling, Rose Bud Holly Brosnan, and Rose Buddy Iarla Farrell. What an honour to host such a special moment!”

“We’re proud to support this heartwarming celebration of community, friendship, and young talent. Stay tuned for exciting updates and behind-the-scenes fun as the journey continues!”

Over the years, the Rose Buds programme has allowed children from all over Ireland – and indeed around the world – to build connections, take part in Festival activities and events such as the Rose parade and live television show, and enjoy special moments throughout the Festival. Rose Buddies will now enjoy all the same opportunities, with the emphasis firmly on fun, friendship and belonging.

This year Fairtree Village has been announced as the official sponsors to the 32 Rose Buds and 33 Rose Buddies to be selected for 2025. This lucky group of 6-10 year olds get to experience the Festival alongside their paired Roses and Rose Escorts, and become mini ambassadors of the Festival at fun events during the Festival week and take part in the television show hosted by Dáithí Ó Sé and Kathryn Thomas live on RTÉ.

The 2025 Rose of Tralee International Festival will take place from from August 15th – 19th, promising a week full of celebration, connection, and Irish culture at its finest – now with even more young faces lighting up the stage.