Thirty-two lucky girls from all over the world have been selected from over 300 entries to become Rose Buds at this year’s Rose of Tralee International Festival from 14-20 August.

This year’s campaign which was sponsored by The Kerryman and The Corkman newspapers and the The Playdium Children's Entertainment Venue Tralee attracted entries from the United States, Britain and Canada and from nearly every county in Ireland.

The General Manager of the Rose of Tralee International Festival, Oliver Hurley, said: “Congratulations to the lucky 32 girls who were selected to be Rose Buds at this year’s Festival. We know that you and your families will enjoy a life-changing experience, just like the International Roses. Our charity partners are particularly grateful to everyone who entered. We will donate a portion of the €5 entry fee the HOPE Foundation and Epilepsy Ireland.”

He thanked everyone who took the time to fill in an entry form and he encouraged the girls who were unsuccessful this time to try again next year.

The 2013 Rose Buds will enjoy being paired with each of the 32 International Roses, attend the JLS Concert on Denny Street, enjoy being present in the Dome for the first televised selection night and take part in two spectacular parades through Tralee.

The 2013 Rose of Tralee International Festival and Rose Gathering will take place from Wednesday 14th to Tuesday 20th August with a fun-packed entertainment programme scheduled to suit all ages.

JLS, The Stunning, Nathan Carter, Sharon Shannon, Skyfest Air Display, the Rose Selections, Rose Ball and Fashion Show are just some of the highlights for this year’s event.

Anyone who wishes to purchase tickets or find out more about what this year’s Rose of Tralee International Festival has to offer should visit www.roseoftralee.ie or contact the Festival Office on +353-66-7121322.