The search for the 2023 International Rose of Tralee and Rose Escort of the Year has officially begun.

With rose selections taking place across 32 centres nationally and worldwide, 2022 Rose of Tralee Rachel Duffy, RTÉ Rose of Tralee presenter Daithí Ó Sé and Rose Escort of the Year Shane McHugh have officially launched the search for the 2023 International Rose of Tralee.

The 2022 Kerry Rose, Éadaein O’Connell, from Glenderry, Ballyheigue was also on hand to welcome Rachel Duffy back to the Kingdom and launch the search for this year's Roses.

It took place by the Rose of Tralee statue in the Rose Garden in Tralee Town Park. The statue is a tribute to the original Rose of Tralee, Mary O'Connor, along with her beloved, William Pembroke Mulchinock.

The 2023 Rose of Tralee International Festival will take place from August 18 to 22. Ireland’s flagship family festival continues to grow in popularity with more than 100,000 enjoying all that was on offer across the five-day event. Now, as they prepare to do it all again, the search is on at home and abroad to find this year’s Roses and Rose Escorts.

Over the coming months, Rose of Tralee regional selections will take place in towns and cities across Ireland, and all over the world. Every Rose that is selected to represent her county, city or country will enjoy a nationwide Rose tour, showcasing attractions and communities right across Ireland; before arriving in Tralee for five fun-filled days of parades, gala functions, community events, entertainment, the televised Rose Selection nights and much more.

Rachel Duffy is encouraging anyone interested in taking part to join her this year.

"It’s great to be here launching the 2023 festival with Daithí - I have so many special memories here in Tralee and it has become a home away from home for me. The one thing I can say to any young woman interested is ‘go for it and apply!’ The Rose of Tralee International Festival has truly been the most incredible experience so far and it's a brilliant opportunity to connect with other women and represent your community on a national stage. I am so grateful for all the lifelong friends and memories I have made on this journey. I wouldn’t change a thing,” Rachel said.

If you think you’d like to take part and become a Rose or Rose Escort, simply visit www.roseoftralee.ie for more information on how to start your own Rose journey.

Applications are now open at www.roseoftralee.ie.