Spectators staked out front-row seats for a trip to a galaxy far, far away, as Pasadena's famous Rose Parade prepares to present an otherworldly tribute to Star Wars.

FOR single men it’s the hottest date of the year — the chance to escort one of 30 sizzling beauties in this summer’s Rose of Tralee.

IT was a sunny Sunday in Tralee yesterday and while the escorts slept through the morning, the Roses were ferried around town from first light.

JUDGEMENT day is nigh for this summer’s roses, but they’re not wilting under the strain. The judges hover everywhere, even when the girls make their way up the aisle at St John’s church during Sunday mass.