The Newfoundland & Labrador Rose

Newfoundland & Labrador’s history is rich in Irish heritage, traditions and culture spanning many generations, and participation in the International Rose of Tralee Festival is a natural reflection of those characteristics. Held bi-annually, the Newfoundland & Labrador Rose of Tralee selection comprises many events during the Rose week celebrations, with the final event being the selection Gala.

Joining the sisterhood

When you apply for the Newfoundland & Labrador Centre you are taking a leap into an adventure with other like-minded women. Women who are interested in volunteering, growing, and sharing their experiences with each other. Together we take part in fundraising events, community organizations, and social events.

Year round events

We get together throughout the year to take part in a number of events. We volunteer for VOCM Cares events like Klondike Night selling tickets and helping with games. We always spend an afternoon before the Holidays cooking at meal for the families at Ronald McDonald House in St. John’s. The CIBC Run for a Cure and other fundraising walks are always on our list. One of our favourite events is the Downtown St. John’s Christmas Parade. We also work with the BIS Club.

Rose week

Rose Week is always a hit with the entrants. We spend a week, or two, before the Gala getting to know each other. We start with an evening at The Rooms learning how to use the archives. We take a trip to the Centre of Newfoundland Studies to capture more information about our Irish and Newfoundland Labrador heritage. A tea is planned for our Roses and their families to get to know the other women and the team. A tour is organized which takes the women to craft studios, tourism sites, landmarks, and cafes to share the Newfoundland & Labrador Rose throughout communities on the Avalon. It is a great way for the class of 2024 to get to know each other, and for us to get to know them.

The Gala

The Gala is a highlight of the entire experience. There are on-stage interviews with each of the roses in front of their family, friends and judges. Everyone is sat to a delicious meal while entertainment, speeches and music delight us. The Gala is decorated to perfection and allows the women their moment to shine. At the end of the afternoon the 2024 Newfoundland & Labrador Rose will be selected to represent the women in her class in Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland.