From today to 3 August 2025, the Castlerea Rose Festival will enliven the town of Castlerea, County Roscommon, with a nine-day programme of music, family activities, and cultural events. Recognised as one of Ireland’s longest-running community festivals, now in its 38th year, the event draws around 10,000 visitors annually to the west of the county.
Organised by the Castlerea Rose Festival Committee, the festival offers a blend of free and ticketed events, celebrating local heritage and fostering a sense of togetherness along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The festival opens on 26 July with a series of Pilates classes at The Workshop Castlerea on St Patrick’s Street, led by Sheila Rose, including a gentle session at 10am and a fitness class at 11am, both free but requiring pre-booking due to limited spaces. That evening, a major musical performance, likely featuring a prominent act similar to past headliners like Mike Denver, will take place at the SuperValu car park, with free admission and a dance floor, weather permitting.
Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy events such as a triathlon at Somers Park, a 5km parkrun in the Demesne, and a car boot sale at the Enterprise Hub. Family-focused activities include a children’s art competition and a Funky Kids’ Disco at Trinity Arts Centre on 2 August, alongside a free family fun day at Somers Park on 3 August, featuring a dinosaur show, live music, a barbecue, train rides, and face-painting. The festival’s centrepiece, the Rose Selection Evening, occurs on 3 August at Trinity Arts Centre, where the 2025 Rose of Castlerea will be crowned, hosted by Gerry Glennon of Midwest Radio. The event concludes with a fireworks display at the Fairgreen, sponsored by Athlone and Castlerea Credit Union.
The Castlerea Rose Festival began in 1988, evolving from the earlier Mardi Gras organised by Castlerea Social Services, which aimed to place the town on Ireland’s festival map. The founding committee, supported by local businesses and volunteers, sought to create an inclusive event that would entertain families and boost tourism. Over the years, the festival has featured unique attractions like duck, pig, and bicycle races, reflecting its commitment to engaging and diverse entertainment. Its success was recognised in February 2024 when it won the ‘Best Irish Festival’ award at the LAMA All-Ireland Community Awards, nominated by Roscommon County Council’s tourism section. The festival’s growth has been supported by a dedicated committee, with long-standing members ensuring continuity while welcoming new ideas.
The current Chairperson, Paschal Fitzmaurice, leads the organising committee, having taken over from John Mulligan in 2025. Fitzmaurice, also the festival’s treasurer in previous years, works alongside President John Kennedy, Secretary Susan Gaynor, and Joint Treasurers Margaret O’Grady and Lorna McGourty to oversee the event. Their leadership ensures the festival remains a community-driven effort, supported by a 20-strong committee and around 25 volunteers, as well as local sponsors like Cahill’s SuperValu and Josie’s Café. Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere, with Castlerea’s compact town centre, accessible via Bus Éireann or the Ballina-Dublin train line, offering easy navigation. The festival’s mix of music, family activities, and the iconic Rose selection makes it a cherished celebration of Roscommon’s community spirit.
