Laois Rose Katelyn Cummins Crowned 2025 Rose of Tralee

BREAKING: The Laois rose, Katelyn Cummins, has just been crowned the 2025 Rose of Tralee during an electrifying ceremony held at the Kerry Sports Academy at Munster Technological University (MTU). This momentous announcement was made on the second selection night of the festival, captivating audiences across Ireland and beyond.

The 66th Rose of Tralee, Cummins is not only the latest winner in a prestigious line of roses but also marks another significant milestone in the competition’s 67-year history. The result was revealed live by the festival’s CEO, Anthony O’Gara, as the excitement reached a fever pitch. The festival, which aired on RTÉ over two nights, is expected to have drawn in over a million viewers, with the final night typically attracting more than 500,000 viewers on RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player.

In a heartfelt farewell, last year’s winner, Keely O’Grady, described her reign as “the most exciting ride of my life.” She emphasized the festival’s mission to celebrate modern womanhood and encouraged Cummins to embrace every opportunity: “Say yes to everything, be unapologetically you, laugh loud, sing louder.” O’Grady’s words resonated deeply, highlighting the empowering spirit of the event.

This year’s competition featured an impressive lineup of 32 roses, including four mothers, a cancer survivor, a stroke survivor, and several accomplished professionals such as diplomats and financial consultants. The judging panel comprised notable figures including former Rose of Tralee Clare Kambamettu and fashion designer Don O’Neill.

One of the evening’s touching moments occurred when co-presenter Daithí Ó Sé surprised Limerick Rose Leah McMahon with a birthday cake for her daughter, Ella, who turned eight during the festival. The audience sang “Happy Birthday,” marking a heartwarming highlight of the night.

As the new Rose of Tralee, Katelyn Cummins will receive a world travel prize valued at €25,000 and the use of a €40,000 Kia Niro Plug-in hybrid for the year. The emotional impact of the event and its celebration of women continue to resonate, with co-presenter Kathryn Thomas describing the festival as a vital celebration of empowerment and fulfillment.

With the festival concluding, all eyes are now on Cummins as she embarks on her journey as the 2025 Rose of Tralee. This significant title not only honors her but also highlights the values of sisterhood and modern womanhood that the festival champions. Expect more updates as this story develops.