Rose of Tralee co-host Dáithí Ó Sé: 'I can’t wait. It’s going to be something special'

2025 festival launched as former Rose Clare Kambamettu — who recently announced her engagement to Ryan Tubridy — is named as a judge in the televised contest 

Dáithí Ó Sé on board the MV Cill Airne in Dublin with the Roses representing Meath, Ella Bannon; Ottawa, Rachel Hoare; Cork, Nancy Lehane; and Washington DC Soracha McGrath. The Rose of Tralee International Festival runs from Friday to next Tuesday, with the live TV show on air on Monday and Tuesday. Picture: Domnick Walsh

It was full steam ahead for this year’s Rose of Tralee contestants on Tuesday as the festival kicked off in style aboard the former tender ship the MV Cill Airne.

The vessel, which is now a floating restaurant located on North Wall Quay in Dublin, played host to participants as well as the show’s presenters Dáithí Ó Sé and Kathryn Thomas.

Now in its 65th year, the Rose of Tralee International Festival has become a staple cultural event celebrating Irish identity and ambition.

2010 Rose of Tralee Clare Kambamettu, a clinical psychologist, has joined the panel of judges for this year's contest. She recently got engaged to former Late Late Show host Ryan Tubridy. Picture: Marc O'Sullivan 

The five-day festival will culminate in the selection of the 2025 International Rose of Tralee. It will be televised on Monday, August 18 and Tuesday, August 19 from 8pm on RTÉ — with a break for the news and resuming at 9.35pm.

Some 32 women from all over the world gathered in the capital as anticipation grows ahead of the big event. Dáithí Ó Sé shared his excitement about this year’s festivities.

“Every year, the Rose of Tralee brings something new — new faces, new stories, and a renewed sense of pride in the achievements of Irish women across the globe,” he said.

“I’ve been part of the festival for 15 years now, and I still get that buzz when the dome lights up and the Roses take to the stage. 

Co-presenter Kathryn Thomas with some of the contestants at the launch of the 2025 Rose of Tralee International Festival on board the MV Cill Airne, North Wall, Dublin. Picture: Andres Poveda

"I can’t wait to do it all over again this year It’s going to be something special.”

Co-presenter Kathryn Thomas added: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be returning to Tralee for this year’s festival. Over the past two years I’ve found it incredibly energising to be surrounded by accomplished, inspiring women who are all part of the same tribe.

“What I love most is that it’s not all about gowns or glitter, it’s about grit, grace, and the powerful stories behind each Rose. I can’t wait to meet this year’s group and be part of the magic all over again.”

Queensland Rose Siobhán Edwards, South Australia Rose Beth Mooney, and Tyrone Rose Cloideach Donaghy at the 2025 Rose of Tralee launch. Picture: Andres Poveda

The Rose of Tralee is expected to be watched online by audiences over the world. Influencer James Patrice is also set to return with some behind-the-scenes antics.

New Zealand Rose Keely O’Grady was crowned the 2024 International Rose of Tralee at last year’s festival. She was the third Rose from New Zealand to win the title in the competition’s 65-year history. She is now preparing to hand over her crown.

Former Rose of Tralee Clare Kambamettu has been announced as one of the judges for this year’s competition.

It follows her recent engagement to former Late Late Show host Ryan Tubridy. She will be joined on the panel by RTÉ’s Nuala Carey, fashion designer Don O’Neill, and Aisling Murphy of sponsor Murphy’s New Homes.

Fans of the show can follow all of this year’s action across Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok. The official hashtag is #roseoftralee.